Lent Week 3 -- Truths, Facts, and Lies
It is written that Jesus is "the Way, the Truth, and the Life." This is saying that all truths are the spirit of God and that no one can know truth unless they know Him. But, I find myself coming back to Pilate's questions "What is truth? Are yours the same as mine?"
Truths are not Facts. I love where Indiana Jones tells his students, "Archeology is the study of facts, not truth. If you are looking for truth, the philosophy class is down the hall." Facts are simple statements that apply to the physical world and can be tested under scrutiny. Even if studies are inconclusive and results are debatable, facts remain objective. Truths on the other hand are very subjective. They deal with feelings and emotions and often stem from belief systems. Although universal truths may be agreed upon, it is possible to live and work with multiple versions of truths, such as how to love one another, whereas it is impossible to work with conflicting facts. Oddly enough, Lies are the opposites of both truth and fact. A falsehood is easy to prove while an untruth is painfully felt, but they are all wrong answers.
So, what truths are out there for you? To kill is wrong. To love involves caring. To procreate and nurture is our highest calling. To enjoy life should be our outlook as every moment is precious. To be content is the greatest happiness. To acknowledge beauty in everyday things brings joy. Do you see Christ in these truths? Yes, I think I do.
Truths are not Facts. I love where Indiana Jones tells his students, "Archeology is the study of facts, not truth. If you are looking for truth, the philosophy class is down the hall." Facts are simple statements that apply to the physical world and can be tested under scrutiny. Even if studies are inconclusive and results are debatable, facts remain objective. Truths on the other hand are very subjective. They deal with feelings and emotions and often stem from belief systems. Although universal truths may be agreed upon, it is possible to live and work with multiple versions of truths, such as how to love one another, whereas it is impossible to work with conflicting facts. Oddly enough, Lies are the opposites of both truth and fact. A falsehood is easy to prove while an untruth is painfully felt, but they are all wrong answers.
So, what truths are out there for you? To kill is wrong. To love involves caring. To procreate and nurture is our highest calling. To enjoy life should be our outlook as every moment is precious. To be content is the greatest happiness. To acknowledge beauty in everyday things brings joy. Do you see Christ in these truths? Yes, I think I do.