Sanctify Them in the Truth

While I was with them, I protected them in your name that you have given me. I guarded them, and not one of them was lost except the one destined to be lost, so that the scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to you, and I speak these things in the world so that they may have my joy made complete in themselves. I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. I am not asking you to take them out of the world, but I ask you to protect them from the evil one. They do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you have sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, so that they also may be sanctified in truth. John 17:12-19

The debate rages these days about truth, fake news, science deniers, and the like. But none of us can deny that refusing to hear the truth is healthy or life-giving. Facing the truth, as hard as it can be sometimes, is the only way to healing and wholeness. Jesus knows his disciples will be afraid and might even deny his resurrection. And they would also face rulers and governments who denied their truth and would try to destroy them. We find ourselves in times when some leaders demand complete loyalty and are unwilling to listen to the truth. It is important for us all to hang on to the truth and refuse to be taken in by the allure of power. 

Gracious Creator, you speak to us in quiet

you tell us the truth and heal our souls

you bring us refreshment and renewal

and lead us on the road of truth and justice.

We are tempted to follow the noisy ones

the ones that speak loudly and are bullies

we are drawn by strength and power

and forget you call us to be sanctified in truth.

Lord, help us to turn away from the glitter

and listen deeply to your compassion and care

let our lives be filled with you truth and love

knowing that the truth will set us all free. Amen.