Exodus 20:16 – You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
Matthew 5:37 – Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ be No.’
A special “thank you” to those who encouraged and commented on my summer celebratory series for our county’s 250th Birthday. Your encouragement meant much! We can learn so many life lessons by studying those who overcame and made a positive impact in their day and time. The ripple effect of their contributions benefit all of us – still! Next summer, I’d really like to do a summer series with interviews from those within our congregation. We can learn and grow from those within our midst!
This week’s focus is on truthfulness. Our children and youth Sunday School series for August has been on the Ten Commandments. This past Sunday we delved into honesty. Is it ever okay to lie? Is brutal honesty always the “best” approach? Our discussion brought forth an array of gray areas where there could be some wiggle room. For instance, parents aren’t exactly honest with their children when they perpetuate the Christmas tradition of Santa Claus. And, then there’s the Easter Bunny and Leprechauns on St. Patrick’s …. you get the idea. The magic of childhood definitely allows for a little truth stretching.
Our youth also pointed to times when the whole truth might be overwhelming for children or adults alike. I remember a few thunderstorms while camping with our young children. We assured our girls that they would be okay, when we weren’t too certain ourselves! We’d made the safest choices we could to protect our family, and had to lift a few prayers regarding our own fears and worries. Honesty requires a soft touch, at times. The youth brought up times when a kind heart is needed in response to a friend’s new hair style or outfit. It might not be exactly your own preference, but it’s helpful to find a gentle response to their new “look”. Love is key to all!
Beyond those exceptions, however, are the very words of Jesus. Let your “yes” be “yes” and your “no” be “no”. Our integrity is lost on insincere promises, exaggerations, and outright mistruths. We all find ourselves telling lies, even unintentional ones! Who hasn’t exaggerated in the moment of telling a story, and then reflected later in quiet moments only to realize that “that wasn’t exactly how things happened”. Oops, better to set the record straight when we have the opportunity.
Dear Lord, give us wisdom to temper our honesty with love.
Blessings,
Diana
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