By Dr. James L. Snyder
To begin, one thing I have learned is that truth feels relative to many people. The truth often depends on who is speaking. You can’t always convince them otherwise.
Meanwhile, I always remember good old Uncle Dan. He was not a biological uncle. Yet, he became part of every family gathering. Everyone treated him like a real uncle.
Moreover, Uncle Dan was loved for his funny stories. His tales kept everyone laughing. None of us realized we laughed harder because his stories always changed.
Then, one favorite story was about fishing at a lake. However, the lake changed every time. Nobody knew where the story truly started.
Later, after one storytelling session, my cousin and I compared notes. I asked, “Wasn’t that like the one he told last time?”
Afterward, my cousin scratched his chin and replied, “You’re right. He keeps telling the same story differently each time.” We laughed like cousins do, waiting for the next family gathering.
Eventually, we realized Uncle Dan probably didn’t know he was changing his story. To him, each version felt new.
Years later, after Uncle Dan passed away, I brought him up at a family reunion. I said, “I sure miss Uncle Dan’s stories.” Everyone smiled and laughed together.
Then, I asked the group, “Do you know what Uncle Dan was really doing?” Nobody answered at first. So I added, “How many stories did Uncle Dan actually tell?”
Afterward, a cousin chuckled and said, “He told a new one every time. I lost count.” I turned to Mike and asked, “Can you answer that question?”
With a grin, Mike replied, “Uncle Dan only told one story his whole life.” The room erupted in laughter. We all realized Uncle Dan’s truth was his own version.
Therefore, I never thought Uncle Dan lied. He simply didn’t see truth as we did. Remembering him made me view truth differently. Was he wrong, or just honest from his perspective?
In reflection, Uncle Dan reminded me of Jesus’ teaching about truth. Jesus said, “If you continue in my word, then you are my disciples. You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
Finally, Uncle Dan’s stories were entertainment. However, the Word of God is not for amusement. God’s truth is eternal and freeing. When we know His truth, we become truly free.
Dr. James L. Snyder lives in Ocala, FL with the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage. Telephone 1-352-216-3025, e-mail jamessnyder51@gmail.com, website www.jamessnyderministries.com.
