Just wondering when we lost our sense of indignation regarding events and activities planned without regard to our responsibility to worship the Lord on the first day of the week. Do you remember when Christians would voice disapproval and refuse to support or participate in such activities? Even on Wednesday nights, schools respected the beliefs of those who attended mid-week Bible study. Over the years, we have come a long way in the wrong direction! Assembling with the saints on the Lord’s Day has become something we do only when nothing else stands in the way. Where is the love and devotion in that kind of “left-over” religion?
We used to teach our children that “church” comes before baseball and every other organized activity which might interfere with this priority. Slowly, we have not only relaxed our expectations for our children, but have taken up similar excuse-making for ourselves as well.
A Sunday morning marathon in Little Rock—how exciting. I participated in a number of road races myself. I can relate to the sacrifice of preparation. I know something of the joy of completing the race and the comradery of joining in with others in the big event. But should such be engaged in at the cost of setting aside personal priorities? I think not.
Jesus says, “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness…” (Mt. 6:33). If people would take a stand, refusing to participate, organizers would be forced to move the event to a time when participation did not result in spiritual conflicts. And, even if things don’t change, who are we to relegate God to second place? Think of it as an opportunity to teach our children that God really does come first in our lives!