Don’t waste time on empty pursuits

I have a new alarm clock. A woodpecker has determined that my aluminum extension ladder is a potential source for insects to eat. It spends considerable time each morning banging its beak against the metal side rail attempting to dislodge the breakfast that it is convinced dwells within the aluminum. Its efforts have been fruitless, but that has not changed its resolve. Every morning, bright and early, it is “clinking” away against the metal.

Ironically, the ladder that it hammers upon lies on top of my wood pile; which no doubt contains an ample amount of bugs. But the bird insists on attacking the ladder, while ignoring the real opportunity that it is standing upon.

The notable feature of this event is how much humanity mimics the bird. Over my years of ministry, I have observed numerous people who wear themselves out searching for fulfillment through empty activities, while rejecting the provisions of God that are ever present beside them.

Some have hammered away at manmade religions while spurning the Christian faith. Others have rejected the Bible while reading countless self-help books. Hours have been spent searching for some inner truth through meditation, while refusing to spend even a few moments in prayer. We continue in these efforts while all the time they add their distinctive clink to the echo that testifies of our empty lives.

So, what sound are your spiritual efforts producing, the voice of God or the empty clink of metal? Is it time to wake up?

Pastor Mark Holmes is an ordained minister in the Wesleyan Church and has served the Darrow Road Wesleyan Church since 1997.

Tags: community, religion, family, food