Truth: written on a wall – 22 Jan 2007

Whilst l don’t condone graffiti, every now and then I notice something that gives me pause for thought. I recently spotted this writing spray-painted on a wall along my regular route to and from work (the A45 between Dunchurch and Daventry):

ASK FOR A MIRACLE: truth integrity justice mercy peace

In the run-up to Christmas and the New Year I was struck by the relevance of these words – if you could wish for 5 things to change about the world in 2007 wouldn’t some or all of the above be on your list?

I am particularly struck by the resonance that these words had during Advent. Jesus came to highlight exactly these 5 things – so we are going to look at one each day this week.

Truth is a value which seems to have gone missing in recent times. Pilate said “what is truth?” and many people feel that speaking the truth is not an option because it will be hard for others to accept. If I tell you the truth, that you are a sinner and not worthy so much to untie the shoelace of Christ, perhaps I could be labeled as insensitive or even judgmental. A year ago, during 40 days of community we were encouraged to “speak the truth in love” – how are you getting on in honing this skill?

Jesus used the phrase “I tell you the truth…” very often. Sometimes his words were very difficult for the recipient, whether it be the Pharisee, the rich man or his own followers. Truth is central to the message Jesus left with us. As a Christian, I was challenged recently on the Alpha course about people from other faiths. Surely there are some good people who are Muslim, Hindu, Sikh or other faiths – how can they be denied a place in heaven? This truth is particularly difficult to express in 21st century Britain – what do you think about it?

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No-one comes to the father except through me.” John 14:6 [NIV]

Perhaps the time has come for us to stop being apologists for Jesus. Would we prefer to see people turn from “living the lie” that Satan is so keen to perpetuate or remain in ignorance of the most important truth we have ever heard?

Lord, thank you for the truth that Jesus came to spread. Help us to share the truth with those we meet today. Amen.