Scripture: Proverbs 26:13
A lazy person says, “There’s a lion in the path! A lion in the plazas!”
Thought for the Day: I’m slipping away from Luke’s Gospel for a day or two, but as I prepare for next week’s sermon, I’m thinking a lot about excuses. Specifically, what is it that encourages our excuse-making. This verse from Proverbs is the first of three that speak of laziness (slothful). In one case, the lazy person cannot even get out of bed. In the other, the person is unable to bring food from bowl to mouth. Both of them are probably directed at people of wealth, as they are the only ones who actually could stay in bed all day or make a servant feed them. This first one is different in that the person describes a serious problem, suggesting that it would not be wise to go out because there is a lion. I hope someone tells me if there is a lion on the path. But in the context of the Proverbs, the “lazy person” sets up the adage in such a way that the reader can assume it is a lie. How often have we spun a little white lie simply because we were feeling lethargic and wanting to do nothing? Is the laziness simply because the person is lazy, or is lying an act of laziness. Honesty, truth-telling are often tough, even taxing. In today’s world, I believe our truth-telling muscles do not get enough of a workout. Maybe it’s time to take truth-telling for a walk around the block.
Prayer: May my life continue to express honesty and integrity for the sake of your kingdom, O Lord. Amen.
See You Wednesday
