True journalists uncover the truth and bring important matters to the public’s attention. Max Hastings, a formidable journalist and military historian, once speculated that: “Never in history have lies been such vital instruments of diplomacy and policy.”
So why is truth so important, and what makes a lie acceptable? Whenever we find ourselves in a state of uncertainty, there’s an element of fear, a disconnect that makes falsehoods appear real. The opposite of this is peace and serenity; the contrast is as stark as night is to day.
The following truth has sustained me through some difficult times: God is love, the source of life. When our breath is deep and full, and our awareness senses that we are surrounded by love and are safe, we naturally connect with God, and, in doing so, we open our hearts to love.
God loves us unconditionally, willing us to love ourselves. If we truly loved ourselves and one another, much of the pain and suffering in the modern world would cease to exist.
Matthew 7:3-5 teaches us the importance of self-reflection. “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”
Humility is undoubtedly one of the greatest blessings and levellers of humanity. When we seek to understand, we turn hypocrisy on its head and gain clarity in our intentions and perception.
Genesis 1:27 says: “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” This highlights the miracle of humankind, both male and female. To comprehend this fully is to understand that an eternal essence awaits us all, and in every breath, we begin to uncover truth when we cease to look for fault in others.
Embracing acceptance and cultivating self-awareness are essential foundations for navigating a spiritual life. These qualities remind us to be gentle with ourselves when we make mistakes, and with others when they do too.
Have you ever tried painting on an uneven surface? It’s nearly impossible to create something lasting on such a wall. Instead, we must invite wholeness and strength into our lives and let go of everything that no longer serves us.
Lord, as I inhale deeply and follow the path of love,
Grant me the mercy to accept myself,
even in my fragmented state,
With the pure heart you’ve given me.
Teach me to share compassion
and kindness with all,
For you dwell within every soul on this planet.
Please help us to live in harmony, shining your light and leading us away from ego and malice.
Strengthen us so that we may remain faithful to you and be aware of our actions.
Merciful Father, please forgive us for
allowing wrongdoing to persist.
May your eternal healing bring relief to all families
Who are suffering from the ravages
of war and corruption.
Father, you are ever-loving and ever-present.
It is through your peace that we
uncover the essence of life.
May the truth of your love be with
us forever and ever.
Amen
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