Friday, October 13, 2006

Idols of the Heart and not being able to “buy or sell”

A meditation on Revelation 13:17
What happens to a churched man who does not have Christ first in his affections when he is confronted with not being able to “buy or sell?”

Let’s say he’s worked decades to occupy that longed-for corner office where his ideas and authority are given free reign. He pays the mortgage on his beloved home with the proceeds of his good labor. And, after all his wife and kids are accustomed to the comforts of their home.

Let’s say he adores his wife and family and wouldn’t think of hating them in comparison to his love for Christ. He must buy and sell to do his duty of providing for them, which he has done so well for so long.

Let’s say he has just paid off the mortgage on that retirement property at the beach on which he will build his hard-earned retirement haven. Or, his retirment nest egg has prospered and is of late worth half a million dollars.

Let’s say he has just had his funding renewed for the non-profit ministry that is doing so much good.

Let’s say the ingrained habit of seeking comfort, security, and pleasure has pushed out the desire to seek first the Kingdom of God and seek to set his mind & affections above.

Will this weak man be able to say no to the Mark?

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