|
We
have a couple of birdfeeders hanging in several strategic locations from the eves
of our house. Some birds smaller than wrens feed there, as do the occasional large
woodpecker and stellar jays. However, some of these birds are real hogs and will
even post a sentry to keep smaller birds away. In order to limit the bully birds,
a modification had to be made to the feeders. We added birdcages.
Normally a birdcage is a bird container. But, it is also true that
a cage is to keep enemies out. We put a cage around the feeder with holes too
small for the larger birds, so the little birds could feed safely.
In the Christian faith there are people like those larger birds.
They will try to keep you from getting what God wants you to have. Paul identified
just such troublemakers in Colossi. He said, "No one is to act as your judge
in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath
day." (verse
16).
These thieves were trying to steal the Colossian's freedom in
Christ. In verse
18, Paul even says these people are "defrauding you of your prize,"
that being, at least in part, joy.
Your birdcage is to resist those who would try to be your judge,
and still remember that Jesus Christ is the one you are trying to please, not
yourself.
All Scripture references are from the New American Standard Version unless otherwise noted.
|