PASSING THE BUCK-THORN

“Once the trees went to anoint a king over themselves. So they said to the olive tree, ‘Reign over us.’ But the olive tree answered them, ‘Must I give up my rich oil?’ ” –Judges 9:8-9

When those called to lead refuse God’s call, people get stuck with bad leaders. For every bad leader, three people may have refused God’s call to lead (see Jgs 9:9-13). For every buckthorn, an olive tree, fig tree, and vine may have refused to make the sacrifices necessary to answer God’s call. When our leaders come from the “bottom of the barrel,” it means that those from the top and the middle of the barrel are disobeying God by refusing His call.

How many Christians have been called to run for political office but said “No”? How many parents have turned their children over to the secular media to be parented? How many people have refused vocations to the priesthood and religious life? Why do we wonder at having such poor leadership?

Even if we have disobeyed God for years, we should repent and start leading. Jesus can give us a full day’s pay for even a few minutes of last-minute leadership (see Mt 20:9). Jesus is merciful, and we can receive His mercy, if we only repent and lead.

PRAYER: Father, may I make any sacrifices necessary to take back the lead of my children, church, co-workers, or country.
PROMISE: “You welcomed him with goodly blessings, You placed on his head a crown of pure gold.” –Ps 21:4
PRAISE: George followed the call to become a deacon as well as husband and father. His devotion to serving Jesus inspires his entire parish.