A Message from Pastor Kaji
Dear Church:
This week, we’re exploring a complicated matter. Many like to believe that the difference between truth and lies is as clear as black and white. But what happens when those lines start to blur? When small justifications turn into bigger distortions? When what seems harmless at first becomes something harder to untangle?
This Sunday, we’ll explore a story that challenges us to examine the role of truth in our lives—not just in what we say, but in how we live. As you prepare your hearts and minds, consider these questions:
- Have you ever told a lie so small that it felt harmless—until it wasn’t?
- What do you think is more dangerous: an outright lie or a half-truth?
For Sunday, I will be taking a day of rest, but fear not: we’ve already prepared a reflection for you to experience. I’m so excited to hear about your reflections on this complex matter!
Pax Christi,
Pastor Kaji
SCRIPTURE
Acts 5:1-11 (Year C, p. 68):
1 Now a certain man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold some property. 2 And he kept back some of the proceeds, with the knowledge of his wife, and brought only a part and placed it at the feet of the apostles. 3 “Ananias,” Peter asked, “why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to withhold from the proceeds of the land? 4 Was it not [both of] yours while it remained unsold, and in your power? Why have you contrived this in your heart? You did not lie to [mere] mortals but to God!” 5 Now when Ananias heard these words, he fell down dying. And great fear came upon all who heard. 6 The young men came and wrapped him up, then carried him out and buried him.
7 And it happened after about the space of three hours, his wife came in not knowing what had happened. 8 Peter said to her, “Tell me whether you two sold the land for such and such.” And she said, “Yes, that was the price.” 9 Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you two have conspired to put the Spirit of the Holy One to the test? Look! The feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” 10 And she fell down immediately at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 And great fear came upon the whole church and all who heard these things.