We have had a problem at our church building for the past
few years, which seems to be getting worse instead of better. Folks are leaving
doors to different parts of the facility unlocked. It varies by days of the
week and times of the day. We speculate that folks just don't remember to lock
up after themselves when they leave, but it makes you wonder if there is
something more sinister going on. Could someone outside of our members have
gotten a key?
There is no denying that security has become a major concern
in our world today. Each of us tends to be a little more cautious with our
personal security. We make sure we lock our cars and our homes; we install
alarms (and try to remember to set them). We are told that in our community, crime
has risen by 14% in the past few months, (mainly breaking into homes).
I understand, from those who are suppose to know, that no
matter how hard you try and secure your stuff, there are always weaknesses in
your preparations. Someone who is an experienced thief will find those
weaknesses and exploit them to get you stuff if they really want it.
What are we to do? What can you do, when you've done
everything you can to secure your stuff or even your own safety and it's not
enough? Who do you trust in then?
As a Christian you know the answer already, you trust in
God.
I love the story about Thomas Edison when a fire completely
destroyed his research facility. His son found him watching the blaze destroy
everything he had created. Rather than dwelling upon the destruction he told
his son, "Go and get your mother, she'll never see another fire like this
as long as she lives."
He of course picked up the pieces of his life and
laboratories and went on to invent even more wonderful things.
In Matthew 6:19-21
we read: "Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust
destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in
heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and
steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be."
(NLT)
Maybe we need to stop and ask ourselves, "Just what is
it in this world in which I really trust?" In Matthew 28:20, after giving directions as to what he expects his
followers to do, he makes this promise: "And be sure of this: I am with
you always". (NLT) I will continue to trust in the Lord, the maker
of heaven and earth (Ephesians 3:15).
