"And though the LORD warned Israel and Judah by every prophet and seer, 'Give up your evil ways and keep my commandments and statutes,'... they did not listen" 2 Kgs 17: 13.14
When we are full of ourselves, we somehow believe that our lives are immune from error and even suffering, and what a mistake this is. Arrogant, argumentative and patronizing, especially towards those we consider beneath us socially, we can be racist and elitist without even knowing it, and although the Lord warns against these attitudes, we rarely listen as long as our lives appear happy and successful to others.
When the Jewish people felt it was no longer necessary to observe the statutes and laws the Lord had given them for their own protection and safety, they rejected the Covenant and decided to walk a path of their own choosing. Forgetting the great gifts of God given to their ancestors, they built two molten calves, worshiped Baal, and dared God to reject and punish them.
Upon reflection, most of us realize that, like the Jews, it is our pride and apparent success that gets us in more trouble than anything else. We want what we want when we want it, and too often blame others for the problems we have created ourselves. Gratefully, God's direction to us is simple but not always easy. If we put aside our self centeredness and turn to God again, God will accept us into his heart.
Today, examine your conscience with openness of spirit.
What is your biggest fault or sin?
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