From the Preacher’s Pen…
If you knew Kristi Martin or attended her funeral you would know how much she loved shoes. And it was her love of shoes that caused me to remember a little story. Think about it for a moment:
What Kind Of Shoe Are You?
Often we hear: “If the shoe fits, wear it!” or “I’d hate to be in his shoes!” Perhaps each of us would fit one of the following styles:
Loafer: “Thou wicked and slothful servant” (Matthew 25:26). “Be not slothful in business” (Romans 12:11).
High Heel: A person is not “to think of himself more highly than he ought to think” (Romans 12:3).
Overshoes: Puts on Christianity only when the going gets rough. Wants the prayers and visits of others only when in trouble.
House-shoes: This person wants things easy, comfortable. He is scared off by building programs, mission work, benevolent work, etc. He can’t worship in bad weather. “Woe unto them that are at ease in Zion” (Amos 6:1).
Sandal: Just a skeleton of a Christian. Has not grown in service. “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby” (1Peter 2:2).
Sunday Shoes: Once-a-week Christian. “If any one will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Luke 9:23).
Work Shoes: The active Christian who is always on the job for the Lord. “I must work the work of Him who sent me, while it is day: the night comes when no man can work” (John 9:4). “Son, go work today in my vineyard” (Matthew 21:38).
We should all remember: “Now (today) is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). May I ask you again: “What kind of shoe best describes you???”
–Author Unknown
So, what kind of a servant of Jesus Christ are you? Just like those shoes, God many times uses the illustration of clothing and what we wear as a lesson about Godly living. So, how does the shoe fit you?
There are so many opportunities for us to give of our time and our love. Where can you serve? Is there someone you can invite to study God’s word? Someone you can invite to worship? Someone who’s struggling that you could encourage? Someone who needs a friend and a kind word that you could help?
Just like you don’t want to be caught with the wrong shoes or inappropriate clothing for the occasion, make certain that you are always prepared to be a servant for Jesus. As Peter puts it, But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. (1 Peter 3:15-16)
Get your correct shoes on and the right attire, and serve the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind and strength this week!
— Lester P. Bagley
