August 02

Declaring the Truth On the Back Steps of Life


Don’t you realize how kind, tolerant and patient God is with you? Or don’t you care? Don’t you see how kind he has been in giving you time to turn from your sin? … But he will pour out his anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and practice evil deeds.

Romans 2:4, 8 (NLT)


I read the first sixteen verses of Romans and I get this image of two kids playing on the back steps of their house. One child is disobeying his mother; the other child stands up—concerned his brother is going to get in trouble—and in righteous indignation says, “Stop! Mom will catch you and you’ll be punished for not obeying.”

But the mother has been patient, watching behind the screen door, giving the young lad a chance to begin doing what she asked. Unfortunately, the child doesn’t even begin to obey but continues in his selfish, disobedient pursuits. The camera retreats and the scene fades from view.

The simple picture is not far from our reality. We are called the children of God, and as his children we have choices to make—choices for good or for something less.

Too many, I’m afraid, are living like the wayward boy on the back steps. They play at life in their own selfish ways; they break His rules and think nothing of it; they hurt others and themselves and … over time they grow bitter.

Perhaps they will come to their senses, perhaps they will learn, but most likely they need an example and a voice. Who will win them over to peace with God?

Paul tried. Will you?


Father, give us wisdom, show us opportunities to share this truth: “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Amen.