“That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” Ephesians 4:20-25
I am reading the book ‘Flames of Rome’ by Dr. Paul L. Maier and last night I came across a statement that made my highlight reel. In chapter 21, we find Sabinus, the mayor of Rome, commenting about Nero’s talents while trying to play the mime, and he said, “No man is ever a complete failure. He can always serve as a horrible example.” Have you ever known anyone or worked with anyone that would fit that description? I do and quite possibly there are times along my journey when other’s may have thought that about me.
Last week, I read online that French President Emmanuel Macron was caught on video calling the Haitian transitional council "total morons" for sacking the embattled nation's prime minister, prompting Haiti's foreign minister to summon French Ambassador Antoine Michon to address the "unacceptable remarks". The video clip also shows the French president blaming Haitians for "letting drug trafficking take over. Quite frankly, it was the Haitians who killed Haiti." President Macron delivered a ‘Kaskèt’ or a Slam Dunk on the relationship between France and Haiti. His remarks were brutally honest. Sabinus and Macron spoke truthfully but their words stung the ears of the people receiving them. The Apostle Paul’s words in Ephesians, are a turning point for our lives as we are starting with an acceptance of the truth; speak the truth. I can tell you from past experience, it is better to reflect the truth in words that have been assembled in your engine, before you engage the clutch and shove them out of your mouth and into the ears of those waiting to hear your wisdom. I confess that my sinful lineage was on Noah’s Ark and also in the Garden of Eden; I’m not perfect. I try to share my honest opinion about Trinity HOPE feeding programs in Haiti and the current events challenging that country now…honestly. There are times when my aged memory fails me. I always try to share with you, words that encourage and not discourage; shine the best light on Haiti as possible. This Monday morning, a few weeks from Christmas, please share the news of the celebration of our Savior born in Bethlehem…honestly with those who ask for the reason of your Hope. Take a short moment to frame your response. It’s that important.
Heavenly Father, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen.
May God be with you,
Jay