Vol. 9, No. 2

April, 1972

Truthful Excuses

An excuse need not be a lie. It is because, factor, or circumstance that frees from blame or releases from obligation.” Many excuses are both truthful and legitimate; some are outright lies; while others may be very truthful, yet reveal a most unbecoming character in the maker. When someone “explains” his absence from worship with, “We had visitors,” this need not be a lie. It may be truth — which tells us that this person regards social amenities as being more important than worship. “No one is perfect!” How very very true. So — there can be no standards, no “right” or “wrong.” There can be no ideals to which we can press, nor should we urge such elevated goals upon others. Can’t we see that the imperfection of man is the very rea­son for recognizing our failures as such, and helping one — another to “get up and try again.” “Many people do it,” to which we all must agree. Does that make it the will of God? 'Many people” think that man made God in his own image, and accept a “situation ethics” standard; but it can not be

demonstrated that such a philosophy has ever elevated mankind, or promoted a stable society. This is a poor substitute for faith in God and individual character. “There are hypocrites in the church”— and the world has none?? Do you think that using a hypocrite as your “excuse” makes you a better man? And how is it that one is able to see the truth with reference to hypocrisy in others, and be blinded to the same in themselves? (Matt. 7:1-5) “But I meant well!” This also may he the truth. It commends, to some extent; but it remains a commendation only as our “honest heart” leads us to further consider God’s truth, and make corrections accordingly. A radio “commercial” of some years back has one man excusing himself (?) from worship with, “Things are so unsettled these days. There is so little time. Why, the whole world may be blown apart at any moment.” And the reply was, “That’s right!” [Previous Article] [Next Article]

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