Standing in front of a tempting display of freshly picked cherries was a very classy looking gentleman and lady. They appeared to be about sixty and were well dressed. His clothes were impeccable, and she was well appointed with expensive appearing jewelry. They were filling a plastic bag with cherries and were literally feasting while doing so. Even more amazing, after eating the not-yet-weighed-or-paid-for fruit, they spit the pits back into the display. It was truly an amazing display of thoughtlessness for others.
These people were someone’s parents, somebody’s grandma and grandpa, most likely someone’s employer. And they were behaving like small children. Now, true, Jesus tells us we must become as little children if we are to enter the kingdom, but surely this was not what he had in mind when he said that.
Being thoughtful of others. Thinking before we act and using our talents, resources, and gifts for others is what makes society work. Peter once said in 1Peter 4:10, “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others….”
Written 7/27/2000