[339 words]
Sitting in an automobile repair shop, I was recently confronted with one of the biggest opponents to health—the vending machine. As a young boy, like a magnet I was drawn to the bright lights and the colorful display of pure sweetness found within every wrapper. The thrill of putting money in and selecting what I wanted was, at times, a fun and joyous occasion. Looking at this enemy of the waistline today, I can’t help but see an illustration relating to the American concept of religion.
In a culture of moral relativism and unbiblical tolerance telling us that all belief systems are equally valid and for someone to stand up and say otherwise is judgmental and pushy, it’s easy to see why we are in the shape we’re in. Just like when we stand in front of a vending machine to select our snack, culture tells us to pick the religion we want, the one that fits us best. In the end, religion is not based upon anything other than what we desire—if we desire anything at all.
In Matthew 22:37, when confronted with a trapping question pertaining to the greatest commandment of all, Jesus replied, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind,” With this single answer, Jesus placed all teachings pertaining to religion into the proper perspective. It’s All About God! When He’s first, there’s no room for my particular desires. It’s not about my cravings. Rather, it’s about loving God.
Individuals are the kings when we stand in front of the blissful vending machine. We get what we want, when we want, and truth-be-told, that’s okay in matters pertaining to peanut butter crackers versus cheese-filled crackers. However, let us never adapt that same mentality when we approach our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. May we always remember that it’s about God and not us!
“If you love me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15).
Joe Wells
Lynnville Church of Christ
Lynnville, KY