Reflection
As we begin a new year, it is time to take a hard look at ourselves and ask if we have lowered the bar of our expectations too far. What expectation do we have in the areas of honesty and moral uprightness? Do we still value integrity? What moral principles do we expect to underpin the behavior of those we choose to lead us at any level? What do we expect from one another? Do we still value telling the truth and not ignoring it for personal advantage? We are being exposed to this daily, but, being judgmental is not helpful. Neither is acting as if everything is acceptable. We do have a responsibility to one another to be honest, respectful and trustworthy. Not every aberrant behavior is tolerable in the name of personal freedom. We need to summon our own objectivity and personal honesty and evaluate where we are and who we want to be.
Prayer
Pray for us that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.
Hebrews 13:18
Action
Consider the events of the past year. Examine where you stand. What guides your judgments? What are you willing to accept? Make the connection between the gospel and daily behavior. Is there a connection visible in those who claim to follow Jesus?
Suggested Reading
To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.
Proverbs 21:3
One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.
Luke 16:10
The Gospel calls individual Christians to live lives of honesty, integrity and concern for the common good.. to create circles of integrity.., networks of solidarity which can expand to embrace and transform society by their prophetic witness
Pope Francis
To give real service you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity.
Douglas Adams
The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.
Bob Marley
We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principles.
Jimmy Carter
Live so that when your children think of fairness, caring, and integrity, they think of you.
H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Conduct reveals character, and we best understand integrity when we see it lived out in a person’s life.
Charles H. Dyer
Integrity isn’t a destination. It is a way of life. It is an internal guidance system that will never guide you astray!
Kelley Kosow
Moral authority comes from following universal and timeless principles like honesty, integrity, treating people with respect.
Stephen Covey
People of integrity and honesty not only practice what they preach, they are what they preach.
David A. Bednar
Integrity is making sure that the things you say and the things you do are in alignment.
Katrina Mayer
Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity.
W. Clement Stone