Click HERE to view Rev. Stacy Macris Ros’ guided meditation during the service.
SUMMARY OF MESSAGE:
This week, Rev. Richard Maraj opened his five-week “Songs of Life” series with an exploration of what we can learn from Billy Joel’s 1978 hit, “Honesty.”
Truthfulness shapes our well-being, relationships and spiritual lives. Although we often dismiss small lies or withheld information as harmless, these habits can undermine trust and prevent authentic connection.
Rev. Maraj invited us to practice honesty in three areas:
1) BE HONEST WITH OURSELVES
Honesty begins with acknowledging what is really happening within us. Saying “I’m fine” can hide unresolved grief, unhealthy relationships, harmful habits or a need for help. Regular self-reflection helps us recognize what needs attention and healing. Pause and ask: What am I feeling? What am I avoiding? What do I need to stop doing—or begin doing—to live more fully? Taking time to listen, reflect and journal strengthens self-awareness. As we become more truthful with ourselves, we create a foundation for greater honesty with others.
2) BE HONEST WITH OTHERS
Withholding important information from those closest to us can create distance, distrust, guilt and shame. Sharing our truth takes courage because we risk rejection, judgment or embarrassment. Yet honest communication opens the way to deeper intimacy, healing and peace. Healthy honesty requires discernment. It does not mean blaming someone, unloading every thought, or sharing private details indiscriminately. It respects boundaries and confidentiality, considers the closeness of the relationship, and addresses the person directly. The guiding question is whether the information matters to that person and whether withholding it could cause harm.
3) BE HONEST WITH GOD
Being honest with God means sincerely and wholeheartedly seeking the Divine Presence, rather than seeking only what we want God to provide. This spiritual connection allows greater ease, grace and openness to Spirit. Fear of not being loved or accepted often drives us to lie or hide parts of ourselves. Remembering that God loves us unconditionally helps release the need to protect ourselves through dishonesty. We are created in the image and likeness of love, and we are always loved. Accepting this truth gives us courage to live honestly—with ourselves, with others and with God.