Who Knows What?

Some people are scared that our medical records might be shared with the wrong people. That seems to be at the heart of two discussions on the Today programme this morning. The bloke from NHS England was clear that our records would be anonymous, but another bloke was full of complicated fears. 

Most of the time, it seems to me, these fears are groundless. 

Every time I use my computer, another computer in GCHQ or the NSA probably notes what I have done, and certainly Google and all other browsers are keeping an eye on our preferences. This is how they get paid, and I get to use most of their services for free. (Any experts who are reading this, and feel I need to be more careful, kindly tell me!)

But of course my mind goes to the question, 'Who knows what about me?' To which the answer is God. 

Jesus told us that every word we say will be taken into account when we face our Maker and our Judge. 'And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgement day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.” (Matthew 12.36-37) This suggests we ought to think before we speak, or possibly only speak when we have something worthwhile to say!

The writer to the Letter to the Hebrews reminds us, 'Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable.' (Hebrews 4.13) I am aware that because God knows all about me, trying to hide is pointless. How foolish I am when I kid myself that the most important observers of my life are the people around me. Better to face the truth, and to pray 'May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.' (Matthew 6.10)
Best wishes,

Richard