"OK, Rich, remember what we've taught you..." I was at our monthly card group and a new
player was at my table. I wasn't drawing
the cards I needed so I decided it was time for some risky play. We all had been sharing the strategy for
success with the new players and what I was about to do violated the generally
accepted plan.
I thought about my teaching and my example that night when I
read Micah 1:6- 13. Micah listed the
consequence of idolatry and oppression. He named specific communities and gave
details of the disasters to come.
Samaria would crumble into a heap of rubble. It would become
a vineyard. Those ornate, idolatrous and
expensive temples would be burned. People would be led away as slaves. People
would live in fear behind their walls. They would vainly hope for better
days. They would become bitter. People
would suffer for straying from the Lord's way.
Then in verse 13 Micah points his prophetic bony finger (I
always imagine prophets pointing bony fingers in the Name of The Lord) at Lachish. Lachish started the downward slide. Other Israelite cities followed their example
and strayed from The Lord to worship worthless idols.
I am always struck with fear when someone begins to quote something I said or
repeats one of my actions. I feel the
weight of influence. God left me here to
proclaim His Name, His Work and His Glory.
I worry that I may have misspoke or someone caught me in an
all-too-human moment of assimilation to the world.
Fortunately, God is merciful. He believes in second chances. Perhaps those times are opportunities for me
to be a better example. Or a time to
share God's amazing grace with another soul that has a tendency to want the temporary
benefits of this world, not focusing on the eternal rewards in our future.
By the way, my risky card play, didn't result in a victory
that night. It was just a discussion of
strategy and a teachable moment for the rookie!
Today I am reminded not to be Lachish or Lack-ish (as I like
to think this town is pronounced) in my
spiritual walk. Today I am inspired to
concentrate so my witness does not lack in proclaiming the beginning of worthy
worship-Jesus, only Jesus. What I do and
say, build and acquire, should proclaim Jesus.
Others are paying attention. More
importantly, God knows. He always
knows. We think we can build walls and
hide. Hallelujah, God is greater than any wall I can build. He loves me enough
to come to me. He gives me another dose of His amazing grace.
My life does not lack in blessings and benefits. Therefore my devotion to The Source of these blessings and benefits shall
not be lack-ish. I have experienced His
love and mercy. So I am moving from
Lack-ish Town!
