It wasn’t as simple as just crossing another river. By law, no Roman General could lead armed troops into Rome. So when Julius Caesar led his Thirteenth Legion across the Rubicon River into Italy in 49BC, it was an act of treason. The impact of Caesar’s decision was irreversible, generating years of civil war. Before Rome’s great General became absolute ruler. Still today, the phrase “crossing the Rubicon” is a metaphor for “passing the point of no return”.

Sometimes we can cross a relational Rubicon with the words we say to others. Once spoken, words can’t be taken back. They can either offer help and comfort or do damage that feeds just as irreversible as Caesar’s march on Rome.

James 3:6-9 “the tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell., Man is able to tame and has tamed all other creatures – wild animals and birds, reptiles and fish. But no one has ever been able to tame the tongue. It is evil and uncontrollable, full of deadly poison. We use it to give thanks to our Lord and Father, and also to curse our fellow man, who is created in the likeness of God,'”

When we fear we have crossed the Rubicon with someone, we can seek their forgiveness – and God’s. So Paul challenges us in Colossians 4:6 “Let your conversation be always full of grace”. so that our words will not only honor our Lord, but lift up and encourage those around us.

Lord, please guard my heart and my words today. May I speak only words that please You, and bring health and healing ot others. In Jesus Name AMEN

Chaplain Ron