Reflection
We are made skeptical and cynical by the disregard for facts in the pursuit of secular and religious power. Different religious or political groups profess special insights. Claims to this possessed truth divide rather than to unite us. We need to reflect on how to be bearers of the truth that overcomes divisions and builds union. Jesus prayed that we be “consecrated in truth”, that our standards would not be for our own selfish goals but to witness to the truth that we live aware of God’s presence within us. Tolerance alone is not enough. It can be patronizing and condescending, it is even cowardly in the face of blatant falsehoods. But, seeking honestly to live in truth can be transformative and help us to restore balance.
Prayer
May I live the truth that sets me free.
Action
How can I seek the truth in situations? How can I cut through false rhetoric and posturing? Do I participate in this? Do I adhere to it? What standard can I use to measure my view of what is factual and true?
Suggested Reading
Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth.
As you sent me into the world,
so I sent them into the world.
And I consecrate myself for them,
so that they also may be consecrated in truth.
John 17:11-19
Proclaim the truth and do not be silent through fear.
Catherine of Siena
Morality is the basis of things and truth is the substance of all morality.
Mahatma Gandhi
Integrity is telling myself the truth. And honesty is telling the truth to other people.
Spencer Johnson
The great enemy of the truth is very often not the lie, deliberate, contrived and dishonest, but the myth, persistent, persuasive and unrealistic.
John F. Kennedy
Never be afraid to raise your voice for honesty and truth and compassion against injustice and lying and greed. If people all over the world would do this, it would change the earth.
William Faulkner
In a time of universal deceit – telling the truth is a revolutionary act.
George Orwell
All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.
Arthur Schopenhauer
Honesty is the rarest commodity in the 21st century.
Stewart Stafford