“Jesus Christ” is not a Cuss Word

It is becoming clearer everyday that we live in a post-Christian society. We have remnants of a Christian culture without understanding their origin. Christianity is becoming hollow due to it’s practitioners failing to appreciate the mysteries of the Faith. Our use of religious language is a prime example.

How often do we hear people say, “Jesus Christ” as a curse. When do we talk about Hell? Is it in a theological discussion with believers or after we stub our toes. We are told not to judge and are scandalize when we discuss Judgement day. Why are we afraid to talk about death when our Savior conquered death? OMG does not stand for “oh my goodness” and is also not a shorten way to start a prayer. The hilarity is only increased when we realize such language is used by non-believers.

God made it one of His Ten Commandments to not take His name in vain. Therefore, it was taught to not misuse the name by good and faithful Catholics. However, as the generations progressed, we missed the opportunity to discuss how to use the Lord’s name for Praise and Adoration and Worship and Blessing and Supplication and Gratitude. Yes, we must not take the Lord’s name in vain. BUT we must still address the Lord and have a relationship with Him.

Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior who was born in Bethlehem, raised in Nazareth, died in Jerusalem; rose from the grave; and now resides in Heaven until He comes again. Hell is a place that is real and exists. Hell is for those who do not desire to participate with the God who is Love, Life, Goodness, Beauty, Peace, and Joy. Judgement will come. One day we will all die and it is inevitable; Momento Mori. The righteous will receive the resurrection of life and the wicked will receive the resurrection of judgment. Oh my God, is a great way to begin a prayer.

These words are not supposed to be taboo, but they are meant to be said with reverence. I picked up a habit that whenever I hear someone say, “Jesus Christ.” I take the liberty of “finishing” the prayer with, “Mary, and Joseph pray for us!” We must learn the true meaning of these words so that our speech may reflect our beliefs as Catholics.

It is a sad day when I say, “Jesus Christ.” And people look at me as if I cussed. In the classroom, I try to say Jesus Christ as much as possible in order to break the taboo of using the most powerful name we have available. We must be bold as Catholics to invoke these mysteries of the faith. We must proclaim Hell, judgement, Death, and above all Heaven. We pray to the Lord that the passage in Philippians will come true…

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:9-11