TRUTH OR
CONSEQUENCE
The whole assembly cried aloud, blessing God who saves those who hope in Him. – Daniel 13:60
Truth or consequence was a game we played in our younger years. Those
who are my age would remember gathering with friends on moonlit nights
or at parties. We are asked to tell the truth in answer to a question
and, if found to be lying, would get a consequence, like to dance or
sing.
In today’s First Reading set in the Jewish Babylonian captivity, a
favorite Old Testament story of mine, we see a parallel but deadly game
of truth and consequence. Susana, a God-fearing woman, tells the truth
of her innocence but is falsely accused by the lying elders. She is
sentenced to death for alleged adultery. The elders, abusive in their
age and position, tell the lie and are believed. God intervenes through
Daniel, who confirmed Susana’s truthful testimony and the perjury of the
lustful judges. The consequence of their lie was the fatal punishment
they wished on her.
Our Lord never allows lies and injustices to triumph. He always blesses
those who hope in Him and tell the truth even if it’s not always the
popular thing to do. Grace Princesa (grprincesa@yahoo.com)
Reflection: In the game of life, do we choose the truth? The consequence of a lie can be spiritual, maybe even physical death.
Lord, may I always choose the truth based on Your teachings. Don’t let lying and being away from You deaden my soul.
St. Turibius of Mongrovejo, bishop, pray for us.
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