Our Own Yard

by Shane Williams
via The Lilbourn Light, Vol. 10, No. 1, May 2009.

What would you think of a business establishment if you passed by every day and saw the same thing: grass needing to be mowed, weeds taking over, the color is not a uniform green, and maybe there were dead spots scattered about? You might not think too much about it or maybe you would. However, IF the place of business was home to a lawn care company, you would probably take notice. The irony would be too great. You probably would not accept an excuse that they were too busy or didn't have time to showcase their talents in their own place.

Throughout history, the people of God have been in a similar position. They have always been on display, representing the true and living God. Unfortunately, as the apostle Paul pointed out, many professing Christians have been a poor example for the Lord.

The Jewish Christians thought themselves better than the Gentiles, even though they were guilty of the same sins. "Therefore you are without excuse, every man of you who passes judgment, for in that you judge another, you condemn yourself, for you who judge another, practice the same things ... And do you suppose this, O man, when you pass judgment upon those who practice such things, and do the same ourself, that you will escape the judgment of God? ... For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you" (Romans 2:1,3,24).

Today, as we call ourselves Christians, we have a name to live up to. People naturally watch us, just as we do others. They want to see if what we claim to have is really working -- right in our own yard. Are we consistent? Or do we blaspheme the Holy Name of God because of our claims versus our actions?