I’ve never had a beer. My church in Fairbanks used to serve wine for communion, so I’ve had a sip of wine a few times. It goes without saying that I’ve never had any hard liquor, although I guess I’ve just said it.
When I was younger, I made sure that everyone knew that I did NOT drink alcohol. Of course, I also didn’t smoke or party. I had my list of unacceptable sins and, whether I wanted to admit it or not, looked down on those who committed them. Believe it or not, there are repercussions from this attitude that still linger in my life.
When I was 20 or so, I was invited to a graduation party. I refused to go because they were serving alcohol. I still know the people who invited me and they haven’t forgotten how I slighted them. They aren’t angry at me, but, about two years ago, when I asked if I had ever apologized for my attitude, they said “no.” I didn’t score points for my purity, I caused damage to our relationship because I put my image over all other concerns.
The irony (hypocrisy, really) was that, at the time, I was involved in some serious sin. Sin that had the potential to cause much more damage to my life than having a beer. And yeah, the effects of that sin are still with me.
But it was OK, because I was being better than Jesus.
Why is it not OK to have a beer, but it’s OK to be a glutton? Why are homosexuals reviled but adulterers are ignored? Why is it OK to hate someone else’s sin, but to sweep ours under the rug?
I’m kind of scared that if Jesus were living in the US today, we would be the Pharisees, standing on the outside of the crowd, wondering why this guy wasn’t acting like us. Then he would say that we were whitewashed tombs; beautiful on the outside, but dead within.
“Lord, be merciful to me, a sinner.” Hear that’s a good prayer to carry in my heart everyday, especially when I start to feel a bit superior over someone.
Mark is always publishing good articles that have meaning and substance, but this writing is one of his best. This message is full of meaning and deeply insightful. If the reader didn’t recognize themselves in this message, then perhaps you need to take another look at yourself.
Reminds me of the old gospel song…”it’s me, it’s me, it’s me ole Lord, standing in the need of prayer. Not my mother, not my brother but it’s me ole Lord standing in the need of prayer.
Great testimony!
Ouch!!!! Stop jumping on my toes already!!!!!