It’s no secret, we’ve been called out in recent years for only reading the headlines of online articles and then thinking we know all of what the article says. Some are outright lies; like when Pope Francis was portrayed in a white puffer jacket in 2023. Some headlines resonate with our own thoughts, and we conclude it must align with our thinking.
These lies and misconceptions easily gain a lot of traction, especially when controversial. Once spread, they oftentimes do a lot of damage to the fabric of our communities and individuals. Why? Because they undermine the truth without opportunity for clarification or discussion.
This isn’t new to us as humans, we can read about it happening to people in ancient texts, too, like this passage from Acts. Paul was caught up in an angry mob who thought they knew a thing or two about him.
Interestingly, Paul does not get angry or shy away from this murderous crowd. Instead, he asks the guards to let him speak to them. Paul knows he has good news to share, truthful news that has the potential to change their thinking by changing their hearts. We, too, know the power of God’s word and the capacity of love to make life better. Let’s find new ways to do just that!
Loving God, teach us to speak to a viral world! Amen. —