You are to use accurate scales, an accurate ephah and an accurate bath. – Ezekiel 45:10

Today’s Scripture Reading (June 12, 2017): Ezekiel 45

Have you ever heard the one about the honest used car salesman? He died of loneliness. Okay, bad joke – and before all the used car salesmen start to throw rocks at my blog – please remember that I used to be you. But we also have to admit that certain professions seem to have a natural affinity toward being seen as dishonest (you could add lawyers and real estate agents to the list.) And maybe even with an expectation of dishonesty comes the understanding that it is allowable to be dishonest.

But that has never been God’s understanding. In a time when it was a common practice to shave on the measurements, God said no. Your measurements are to be accurate. Honesty is expected. In the realm of God, there is never a time when dishonesty is the appropriate response.

Yet, sometimes in our lives, it can appear that honesty is too hard to be practiced. We fudge on the little things, lie on our resumes, cheat just a little on our taxes, make excuses to avoid friends  – all in an effort just to get by. We justify it by telling ourselves that everyone does it – the behavior is okay and expected. It is an attitude that needs to change. It is an attitude that says that I am more important than you.

I am convinced that we are designed for community – which means that you are as important as I am. In fact, I need you. Dishonesty is a sin against the community – it will tear us apart. And in the end, the destruction of community weakens me. Community is too important to put at risk.

In whatever you do today, recognize the importance of the community in which you live – and the need to live in an honest manner. It keeps the fabric of our community alive and vibrant. And it honors the God we serve.

Have a great day!

Tomorrow’s Scripture Reading: Ezekiel 46