This philosophical reflection argues that truth remains a fundamental value across cultures and throughout history. Drawing from Greek philosophy, Roman thought, and Christian theology, the author contends that truth is essential for meaningful relationships, just society, and spiritual life. The piece warns against "post-truth" attitudes that undermine moral and civil order.
One can reframe the Good Samaritan parable by focusing on the scholar who questions Jesus. The preacher explores how we all struggle with self-justification and confirmation bias, especially in our information-saturated world. Like the scholar, we need courage and humility to question our assumptions, practice "cognitive hygiene," and remain open to transformation through genuine listening.
Fr. Goergen explores truth as something we must live and embody, not just know intellectually. Drawing on Gandhi's example and Rabbi Jonathan Sacks' insights, it emphasizes that seeking truth requires honest conversation, humility, and listening to others. Truth-seeking is collaborative, requiring us to step outside our own perspectives through respectful dialogue.
This reflective piece explores the author's kinship with "Doubting Thomas" (called Didymus) as they both grapple with skepticism in an era of misinformation. While questioning is valuable, the author realizes that excessive doubt can become paralyzing. Like Thomas, they must eventually move beyond endless foundation-testing to build a life of faith and action. [Prepared for the Feast of St. Thomas celebrated each year on July 3rd in Catholic calendar.]
This Dominican reflection explores Jesus' "High Priestly Prayer" from John 17, focusing on his plea to "consecrate them in the truth." The author argues that "truth" has been corrupted in modern times, becoming a tool of power rather than genuine meaning. Drawing from Thomas Aquinas and Dominican tradition, they offer three definitions: truth as aligning one's mind with reality, truth as honest speech, and truth as faithful relationship. The piece calls for reclaiming truth's authentic meaning.
CS. Lewis admired his wife's desire for truth above all else, highlighting its crucial importance. Modern society increasingly bends truth to fit desires, a dangerous trend Lewis prophetically warned against. The story of the Magi exemplifies humanity's inherent quest for objective truth, a delightful pursuit leading to Christ, the source of truth. We must prioritize truth over personal desires to avoid the "abolition of man" and embrace reality.
People often express uncertainty in their language, reflecting a broader societal reluctance to assert truths. The rejection of objective truth can initially feel liberating but, according to Hans Urs von Balthasar, ultimately leads to disorientation and a sense of meaninglessness. True freedom lies in embracing truth, which provides structure and opens us to a deeper understanding of reality and the divine.
This reflection explores the underlying reasons for humanity's desire to explore space, drawing parallels between President Trump's Mars ambition and President Kennedy's moon landing announcement. It posits that space exploration is a fundamentally human endeavor driven by a desire to encounter the inherent goodness of creation and to contemplate the Creator--i.e. the pursuit of truth. The reflection highlights the historical connection between astronomy and Christian theology, suggesting that studying the cosmos is a way to understand God's work and our place within it.
The traditional "three kings" visiting Jesus are actually "magi," likely Zoroastrian priests from the East, skilled in astronomy. Their journey, guided by a celestial event, led them to Jerusalem, surprising Herod. The gospel highlights their scholarly observation and contrasts it with Herod's political motives, suggesting a harmony between faith and reason in seeking truth.
Imagine a virtual reality machine offering a perfect, personalized dream life. Imagine, however, entering means never leaving. The preaching questions whether one would choose this permanent virtual existence, suggesting a fundamental human desire for truth, even in an imperfect world. The biblical character of Bartimaeus exemplifies this desire for truth.
