Thy Word is truth. John 17:17b
Quite frankly, I don't always believe there are two viable sides to every story.
That is certainly not the case in regard to Louis Haros and the worn-out American flag he is flying.
In September of 2008, Haros, a Vietnam vet, told his son he would keep flying his flag until his son came back from Iraq. It's a promise Haros intends to keep. Most certainly, it is the honorable thing to do.
On the other hand, neighbors, drivers-by, even a national veterans' group say the torn and tattered flag is disgraceful and ought to be replaced by a new one as soon as possible. Most of the people I know would agree that having respect for the flag is a good thing.
Yes, two excellent and opposite points of view. Thankfully, the story will soon find its resolution. Haros' son, Paul, is already back in the United States, having completed his second tour of duty overseas. When he, by God's grace, walks through the door, the flag will come down, be respectfully disposed of, and replaced.
Although there are two viable sides to this story, I have to confess, when the story was first brought to my attention, I was impressed by the integrity of a father who believed in keeping his word. No matter what others might think, no matter the forces opposed to him, no matter the whispers of his neighbors, he remained dedicated to keeping his word.
Does that sound like anyone else you know?
Truly, we do have a God whose Word is truth. When He makes a promise, you can believe it is a promise that will be kept. When He gives His Word that something will be done, it is.
In spite of the world's apathy, loathing, disgust, and laughter, God keeps His Word.
· If He says, "the soul who sins will die" (Ezekiel 18:20a), you can be sure it will.
· If He says, "whoever believes and is baptized will be saved" (Mark 16:16a), it will happen -- even if making it happen cost the life of His own Son.
In a changing world, with changing values, morals, and standards, it's good to know we have a Lord about whom we can honestly say, "His Word is truth."
THE PRAYER: Dear heavenly Father, people, commercials, everybody -- make promises that may or may not be kept. We give thanks Your Word can be counted on. We give thanks Your Word is truth. Please, make my word as honorable. In Jesus' Name I ask it. Amen.
In Christ I remain His servant and yours,
Pastor Ken Klaus
Speaker emeritus of The Lutheran Hour®
Lutheran Hour Ministries
Today's Bible Readings: Psalms 73, 85 1 Corinthians 11:17-34
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