God of truth, on whose word we may rely, keep us from flattery and attempts to manipulate others for our own gain, that we, like you, would be trustworthy people, speaking the truth in love for the benefit of all, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit live in eternal light. Amen. ‘ Then the Pharisees went and plotted to entrap him in what he said. So they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are sincere, and teach the way of God in accordance with truth, and show deference to no one; for you do not regard people with partiality.”‘ – Matthew 22:15-16