by Jim Garrett
Did you ever notice on the Lord's Day how many people you see not going to church? This past Sunday it seems there was an unusual number of walkers, joggers, runners and bikers not to mention the ones at the local golf club practicing their swings or putts. There was a man standing there on the practice green with dew still on the ground and no one else nearby. We discussed how some place so much importance on an activity that will not add anything beside their name in the Book of Life. I would not want to hear "I see you practiced your golf swing every Lord's Day morning. How did that work for you?" as part of my judgment.
Are we the minority? I certainly am not going to pass any judgment on people. (I Cor. 4:4) That is not my place to do so.
I have heard people who profess a belief in God but they work hard 6 days a week and this is their day to relax. There seems to be no concern for eternity. That scares me!!
I have heard people say they feel closer to God when they are alone in their fishing boat out on a lake. So much for when there are 2 or more gathered in my name. Or the solitude of the runner as he/she has plenty of time to think. Back in the 80s I ran 6 mornings a week including early Sunday morning but always went to Bible Class and Worship service. As a matter of fact Sunday morning was my long running day of 7 miles and I did have time to think. I thought about a lot of things, God, family, work friends, ect. As slow as I ran I probably got to think more than the average runner did.
Then there is Jesus - tortured, beaten, spat upon, a crown of thorns pushed on His head, forced to carry His cross until Simon stepped in to assist Him, hung on the cross until He passed into death but even with His last breath asking forgiveness for His tormenters. No thought given to a day off, retirement or vacation, just giving and giving of Himself until He was on empty and then with love for everyone He gave himself.
The scriptures were fulfilled that day and on the 3rd day when He arose victorious over death (Gen 3:15) and gave hope to all of us who believe.
I don't think riding a bike or running or even fishing will bring me closer to God. Those activities will benefit our body and hopefully keep us in better health to allow us more time to work with someone who needs a helping hand along the path to eternity.
We need to be mindful of priorities in our lives. Jesus first and above all, helping others, being a parent, spouse and friend. Start today because there is no guarantee of tomorrow.
I believe in the sun, even when it isn't shining. I believe in love, even when I am alone. I believe in God, even when He is silent.