Secrets?

Emblazoned accross the front page of my paper today was news that a judge has extended the secrecy laws protecting aTV star.

I am broadly in favour of the English legal system and common law in particular. Judges have been extending the boundaries of our common law for many years and often with great results in terms of justice and common sense. Yet today I think we see a judgment too far.

Doubtless for the shamed culprit, secrecy brings some sense of thankfulness. May I indulge in a little conjecture? Can you see someone possibly thinking, "Phew, that was close. I got away with it. Hope the gagging order works."

Of course for now, the pressure is off for him. One big problem. What happens in time will be exposed in eternity, unless the record is expunged.

One old time prophet said, "Be sure your sin will find you out." Still, we know that sin can be forgiven and in eternity the slate can be wiped clean.

I also remembered this old but current news: "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books." Revelation 20:12 (NIV)

For now the TV stars identity is secret, apart of course to the select circle who are cognizant of the facts because of involvement as participant, lawer or judge.

This side of the grave the facts may stay well and truly "gagged" away. We shall see. More importantly, will the offence be forgiven and removed from the eternal record? I hope so.