Ignorance of the law is no excuse. How many times have you heard that expression? It is the responsibility of citizens to know what is expected of them and to live up to those expectations. Just to say you weren’t aware a certain prohibition existed does not absolve you from guilt any more than saying, “I didn’t know,” necessarily saves a child from getting into trouble. We should make it our business to learn what rules apply to our day to day lives.
In a manner of speaking, ignorance of the gospel is no excuse either. Take today’s reading from 1 John for example. “I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and you know that no lie comes from the truth” (1 John 2:21). There is no way that the readers of this letter can claim ignorance. They are aware of the circumstances they face, of the importance of the hour. Events are afoot that could cause turmoil for the Christian community. John’s readers should reflect on what they have already come to know and allow that knowledge to guide them in difficult times. “You know what I’m talking about,” John is saying, “and you cannot allow yourselves to be swayed by something other than this truth.”
We should take note of John’s exhortation ourselves. As we seek to live in faith we should be guided by what we know to be true and how that truth allows for no falsehood. This doesn’t make a life of faith any easier, but it does underscore the need for careful attention. As situations arise our responses should come from what we know to be true, primarily that Jesus Christ is Lord.
Prayer: Gracious God, help us to live the truth of your love in all that we do. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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