Hello,
The Oxford University Press has revealed its word of the year for 2023 and it’s ‘rizz’. Don’t worry if you don’t know what it means, I had to look it up to find out. A common definition is: ‘internet slang for romantic appeal or charm’ and it is an abbreviated version of the word ‘charisma’.
‘Rizz’ was one of eight words that were shortlisted for word of the year and the interesting thing that caught my eye is that four of those eight words, including the winner, are connected to or describe relationships in some way.
In a world of TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and X (formally known as Twitter) life can seem impersonal, so it’s not surprising that the significant words for 2023 indicate people are looking for relationships. And good relationships are sorely needed whether it be between nations, ethnic and religious groups, or in local neighbourhoods, church communities, and families. But as important as those relationships are the most pressing need is for people to have a relationship with the living God through his Son Jesus and experienced in the Holy Spirit.
‘Relationship’ may not be a trendy buzzword like ‘rizz’ and probably won’t make word of the year for 2024, but as we head off into another year let’s make the development of our relationship with God and our neighbours a top priority, and let’s take the opportunities that come our way to point people to the relationship that really matters. A relationship that won’t just be for 2024 but for all time.
In Christian love,
Barry Robinson
About the Writer:
Barry Robinson is a Regional Pastor for Southern England, the Midlands and Wales