My son Gabriel has reached the age where the actions and thoughts of othera matter... a lot. He just started a pre-kindergarten year at a local public school. After a few days of waking up at the creak of dawn, stumbling over to the counter and trying to pack him a lunch while making myself a cup of coffee, he says to me; "Daddy, I want to buy lunch at the school restaurant like every other kid." I wasn't sure if I wanted to laugh or cry. Partially because of the temptation to free myself from the entire lunch making process, but mostly because I know a fundamental change is coming. From now on, Gabe will give a certain attention to the actions, words, and possessions of others in his peer group.
I wonder if god feels the same way about us at times? Consider the Daily Mornavian Texts...
Psalm 107:10-16; 1 Samuel 7:2-8:22; Luke 24:36-53
When the wicked turn away from the wickedness they have committed and do what is lawful and right, they shall save their life. Ezekiel 18:27
Regard the patience of our Lord as salvation. 2 Peter 3:15
Even when Samuel warned God's people about the dangers of having a king "like every other nation" they still whined for one like ungrateful children. I am glad that God is patient with us. Despite our childish tendencies he is steady and consistent. He knows when what we want isn't good for us and, if we are open, will use the experience to teach us about ourselves and Him. May we be willing to gratefully embrace the "packed lunch" God has prepared for us rather than clamoring to be like all the other "kids."
Daily Prayer:
How patient you are with us, O God. Even while we were yet sinners, your salvation was won according to the fullness of time through our repentance and faith. Help us to be patient with one another and with the world, knowing that by your grace others will turn away from evil and come to you, good Lord. Amen.
