Matthew 5:11-12
11 “Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
One of the things Alan Harvey and I have bonded through the years is a comic strip by Doug Marlette called Kudzu. We were probably attracted by one of the characters, The Reverend Will B. Dunn.
In one strip, the young man Kudzu tells the preacher:
“I’ve decided you’re a genuine prophet … and I want you to reveal to me the secrets of the universe so I can write them down …. Impart to me the sum of your prophetic wisdom …”
And Rev. Will B. Dunn – the spiritual giant of Bypass, North Carolina begins:
“Wash behind your ears! Brush your teeth after meals! Pick up your feet when you walk! Keep your elbows off the table! Don’t smack your chewing gum!”
Kudzu finally interrupts the preacher:
“Are you sure these are the secrets of the universe? It just sounds like nagging.”
To which the wise preacher responds:
“Now you know why they stone us prophets!”
Life is more serious than a comic strip. But, there is some truth often buried in humor. Following God’s Word and will means paying attention to how we behave. And when we live (and encourage others to live) as God calls us, not everyone will be happy with us. And there is a reward in heaven, even for us prophets who are pummeled for our devotion.
Prayer
God, let me remember that I am performing for an audience of one. And may the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight. Amen.