But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; indeed, he has prepared a city for them.
(Hebrews 11.16 NRSV)
Jon Johnston in his book, WALLS OR BRIDGES, tells about a recent major league all star game. One player, says Johnston, proved to be completely unreliable. "Here was a fellow who had been selected by the fans. A coveted honor. Yet, he somehow couldn't bring himself to get ready for the big game.

"Amazing! There he was on camera before tens of millions of television viewers wearing a ragtag outfit. It began when he forgotyes forgotto bring his uniform. Still desiring to play, he went to work putting together a makeshift arrangement. He bought a shirt from a replica shop. Wrote his number on the back with a felt tip marker. Borrowed socks from a player on another team. And purchased his cap at the airport. What a sight!"

That player should have read Jesus' parable about the foolish virgins. Or the one about the man who showed up at a banquet in the wrong garment. The willingness or the failure to prepare says a lot about a person's character. Contrast his haphazard approach to life to our Apollo astronauts. On one moon expedition Apollo Captain Conrad commented, "It's just like old home week. I feel like I've been here many times before. After all, we have been rehearsing this moment for the past four years!"

Dear God, help me not to be foolish, for you are important to me. Amen.

Ron Newhouse

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