“I think it is you, the women, who have had the most diabolical lies told to you. How many of you are sitting here now about to cross this stage and are thinking about all the promotions and titles you are going to get in your career? Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world, but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world.”

These words were spoken in a commencement speech by Harrison Butker, placekicker for the Kansas City Chiefs. Many people took offense to his words. They felt Butker was diminishing the role of women. Even a group of nuns at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, where the address was delivered, issued a statement of disapproval, saying that prioritizing marriage and motherhood as he did was insulting to them as women who have chosen to remain unmarried.

Butker’s words about women have received significant media attention. He also denounced President Biden, leaders during the pandemic, and the LGBTQ+ movement, among other things.

I read the full text of the speech and was struck by the fact that some of his harshest words were directed at his own church body, the Catholic Church. He criticized the hierarchy and the priorities of individual priests.

Many people have expressed outrage over Butker’s remarks. Others have commended him for taking a courageous stance, especially in his words about women. In some circles, Butker has become very popular: On the NFL’s online shop, his jersey was listed as the most popular for the Kansas City Chiefs, outselling teammates Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.

What are we to think about Butker’s speech? Some of my thoughts:

1) He’s entitled to his viewpoints and First Amendment right to free speech.

2) Those who have shared their reactions – positive and negative – are also entitled to their viewpoints.

3) Much of what he says is consistent with the teachings of his church body. Much of what he says aligns with the Bible’s teachings.

4) Being a wife and mother is a high calling worthy of praise. After all, we recently celebrated Mother’s Day! Thank God for all of the wives and moms who embrace their roles and serve their families with grace and love. “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” (Proverbs 31:28)

5) Elevating marriage and motherhood does not automatically diminish other noble callings that a woman may have.

6) Having read the full text of the speech, I believe it could have been improved by having a less critical tone and more focus on a positive vision for the graduates.

For me, Butker’s speech and the reaction to it are a reminder of the power of words to incite strong feelings – good and bad. Proverbs 15:1: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh words stirs up anger.” Colossians 4:6: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”

You can read the full text of Travis Butker’s speech and form your own opinion:

https://www.ncregister.com/news/harrison-butker-speech-at-benedictine