Pastor’s Pen (March 2011)

“Lying within the Truth” Clive Simpson used this phrase to describe what so often is done: “telling only part of the truth and therein creating a lie'. (I found this in Jim Taylor's 'Sharp Edges' e-mailing)

In a humorous way the following story illustrates what he means:

The first mate on a ship decided to celebrate with a bit of stowed-away rum. He got so drunk that he was still a little drunk the next morning. Later in the day, when the first mate had sobered up, he looked in the ship's log. He read the captain's entry for the day: "The first mate was drunk today."

"Captain, please don't leave that in the log," the mate said. "This could add months or years to my becoming a captain myself."

"Well, is it true?" asked the captain, knowing full well it was.

"Yes, it's true," admitted the mate.

"If it's true, it has to stay in the log. That's the rule. If it's true, it goes in the log. End of discussion!" said the captain sternly.

Weeks later, it was the first mate's turn to make the log entry.

The first mate wrote: "The ship seems to be in good shape. The captain was sober today."

(From Pastor Tim Cybersalt Digest)

Without saying anything that is an outright lie, innuendo is made that slanders a person or slants the truth according to what we might like others to believe is truth. It is a lie buried in the truth. On the national scene and even locally we have seen too much evidence of this 'lying within the truth'. Much of it comes from simply not listening or hearing the thoughts and worries of others (and maybe not caring.....). It becomes so easy to be an alarmist, seeing enemies where there are none and seeing threats where there are simply different ideas.

God calls us to higher level of living. When Paul wrote to Timothy he encouraged his young friend to “... do your best to present yourself to God as one approved by Him, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly explaining the word of truth.” (II Tim. 2:15)

It has been a trying month with the loss of John Vautier who had become so much a part of our fellowship and ministry here. Along with Ginny, Braham and Dana we are finding our way through the loss.... but one of the many things John has left us is an example of integrity. He would often laugh at his lack of understanding of theology.... but his words and actions were filled with the integrity of following in the footsteps of Jesus. I think 'rightly explaining the word of truth' is simply living what we do know of God's truth. Love of neighbor and caring for those in need around us is the stuff of declared faith. What John knew was that he couldn't do it without God. And that was his strength he offered to all of us.

Smile easily, do what you can, notice the needs around you and celebrate each day as the gift it is – acknowledging the Source!

I have told many of you of an article Carol Wells gave me to read on the plane home from Haiti. It was about what is needed to help this island nation and in particular what Bill Clinton is doing there. At a time when the U.N. is not respected by the people and even their own national leaders are not trusted, Clinton is cheered and saluted by the people of Haiti. When asked why this is, he answered thoughtfully: “I think it is because I don't let my words get ahead of my actions.” It wasn't vain boasting, it was simply and honestly being truthful while working not 'for' but working 'beside' the people to build something better.

Folks, as Lent approaches, we realize how much work there is to do in our lives.... and this is a time for self-reflection. But so to ought we to realize the wonder of so many gifts that God has given and continues to give to us! It is a season that really does lead to joy.

Dave