Kung inaakala ninuman na siya’y relihiyoso, ngunit hindi naman siya marunong magpigil ng dila, dinadaya lamang niya ang kanyang sarili. Walang kabuluhan ang kanyang pagiging relihiyoso.

Santiago 1:26

Values education ang kasalukuyang subject ng isang klase sa Junior High. The topic is about reflecting on one’s behavior and how this applies to our daily interactions. Matapos magturo ng values teacher ay hiningi niya sa mga estudyante ang kani-kanilang mga insight. As usual, nag-volunteer mag-recite ang honor student na si Trina. And as usual, napakaganda ng kanyang sagot about the importance of assessing how we relate to others, and making sure we behave in such a way that reflects God’s standards. All this, backed by Scripture verses that she has memorized over the years of being in a Christian school and attending a Christian church. Nang tanungin siya ng teacher kung paano niya ito maa-apply in life, she says she will strive to always be a role model in the midst of the drama and issues going on in their class. “I will never condone bullying, gossiping, and division in our section.”

The whole time Trina was reciting, an obvious division can be felt in the room. Her friends, which were a handful, were nodding and giving her finger hearts. While half of the class was snickering, giving side-eyes because they all knew that it was all lip service. Trina has always been the source of drama, issues, and division in their section because of the rumors she spreads. Ask anyone who the lead bully is, everybody knows it’s Trina.

How tragic it is that some of us think that by memorizing Bible verses, we can disguise ourselves in sheep’s clothing. By hiding behind the façade of being active in church and acing Bible quiz bees, we not only deceive others but we also bring God pain. Using God’s Word to mislead and camouflage our sins is a sin in itself.