Recently, a herd of cows helped the police track down a suspect who was fleeing arrest. During a routine traffic stop, the driver sped away and led law enforcement officers on a high-speed chase. The suspect eventually abandoned his vehicle and ran into a nearby pasture, whereupon the herd steered the police directly to the fugitive’s location.

     One of the arresting officers was overheard to say, “Apparently, cows do not want suspected criminals loitering in their pasture….” Personally, I think the police department should hire cows as their newest field agents. The bovine’s motto could be: “You may run but you can’t hide.”

     The verse quoted above was spoken by Moses just prior to the Israelite’s entry into the Promised Land. However, two of the twelve tribes (Gad and Reuben) had asked for permission to settle down east of the Jordan River, and thereby live apart from their Jewish brothers and sisters. An agreement with Moses was struck provided the tribes living outside the nation’s borders would come to the defense of their country when called upon. Were Gad and Reuben to default on their promise, Moses assured the breakaway tribes that their sin would track them down.

     Moses’ warning points out the unique feature of sin. Whether or not others discover the sin we have committed, eventually our sin will find us. None of us can outrun the consequences of our transgressions.

     Besides, maintaining the secrecy of one’s unconfessed sin takes a toll on the soul. Researchers have concluded that repeatedly thinking about a concealed transgression creates internal, as well as interpersonal distress. People who ruminate about their secrets experience greater degrees of depression, and anxiety, and find less satisfaction in their relationships.

     However, as the adage claims, the truth sets one free. When we admit our failings to God and to those whom we trust, we no longer are held as prisoners to the past. Confession is akin to hitting a reset button and saying, “I’m ready for a fresh start.”

     Yet for those who still think they can run from the truth, be assured that the cows most assuredly will come home. And that’s no bull.