Introduction
Issues concerning the ‘truth’ are central to this week’s news stories, and once again the EU referendum dominates the headlines. Although the official campaign only began on 15 April, it seems as if numerous British (and overseas) politicians have been arguing forever over whether Britain is better in or out of the European Union. Who is right? Who do we believe? Equally, are they telling us the truth in their speeches, articles, campaign leaflets and discussions? What we do know is that the moment of truth will take place on 23 June; then we will find out whether the politicians and their acolytes have been successful in persuading voters.
For many of England’s best football players, the moment of truth occurred this week when manager Roy Hodgson picked his squad for the Euro 2016 football tournament in France. But we – and the manager – will have to wait until 10 June, when the competition begins, to know whether Hodgson has made the right team selection.
In one of his last discourses on the Holy Spirit, Jesus tells his disciples that their moment of truth is almost upon them. He explains that his forthcoming sacrificial death (and resurrection) will precipitate the arrival of the Spirit of Truth. This Spirit will guide them ‘into all the truth’ and enable them to continue the work he started.
Context
Former London Mayor Boris Johnson upped the EU-referendum ante by suggesting the European Union had similar ambitions to Adolf Hitler and other despots from history. Meanwhile, political adversaries – the Chancellor, George Osborne; former Shadow Chancellor, Ed Balls; and former Business Secretary, Vince Cable – united to extol the virtues of European Union membership. This week marked deadline day for Brits living abroad to register for the EU referendum. And even Republican presidential candidate, Donald Trump, entered the EU debate.
Meanwhile, England football manager, Roy Hodgson announced his squad for the Euro 2016 football tournament in France next month
In National Vegetarian Week, celebrities explained why they gave up meat.
Reflection
While we may live in a world crying out for ‘the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth’, we often experience only semblances of this, in what many consider our morally relativist society. For example, our politicians, opinion formers and scholars have a tendency to peddle statistics or promote ideas as ‘facts’ which are meant to convince the listener.
It can be argued that the EU Referendum debate has taken this form with politicians on both sides of the argument rolling out figures or putting forward theories to sway voters. At times it seems as if the truth is the first casualty in this war for voters’ hearts and minds.
The American author and humourist, Mark Twain, supposedly said ‘never let the truth get in the way of a good story’, and the result of the EU Referendum could be an account of ‘personalities’ putting forward frothy opinions rather than considered, cogent arguments based on facts. At times like this we need the discernment of King Solomon to make the right choices.
Last Sunday many churches celebrated Pentecost, the event which saw that amazing outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles, transforming religious minnows into spiritual giants. The scriptures reveal that everything Jesus received from his heavenly Father, such as wisdom and understanding, he had the Holy Spirit pass on to his disciples.
That same Spirit is still available to us today - to help, comfort and guide every aspect of our lives. The question is, when it comes to making important decisions, such as how we will vote in the EU referendum - or whether we should vote at all - do we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us in those choices?
Prayer
Gracious Lord,
At this time of the year we consider the work of your Holy Spirit
who helps, comforts and guides.
May we have the faith and presence of mind
to turn to you, rather than rely on our own resources
when we have important decisions to make,
or when we pass through difficult times.
And we pray that your Spirit will continue to fill us
so we can share the love of Jesus with those
in need of his tender mercies.
This we ask in your precious name
Amen.
Questions
- When we have important decisions to make, is the Lord the first – or the last – person to whom we turn for guidance?
- How do we feel when politicians say they arrived at a particular decision after prayer or some divine revelation?
Action
It is ironic that the EU Referendum coincides with the start of the Euro 2016 football tournament in France. With the exception of Scotland, the home nations will get a chance to play the best Europe has to offer. Invite the members of your congregation to choose one of the 24 participating teams, and then to pray for that country and the issues affecting it.
Young people
This week is also National Vegetarian Week. Many chefs have produced a range of tasty vegetarian recipes for those considering making the dietary change. A meal is often one of the best forms of hospitality, especially toward strangers. With the assistance of adults, if required, encourage young people to prepare a meal (vegetarian or otherwise), or bring in a food item which your church can share with those in the local community (e.g. through the local food bank).
Richard Reddie is a writer and cultural commentator. He is a Warden at St James Church, West Streatham, London.
Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by ROOTS for Churches Ltd.