Thursday, August 21, 2008
Vending Machine God
Last lesson, we talked about the image of a Vending Machine God, a God who was supposed to give you what you wanted as long as you prayed.
One of us talked about how God is a con-man. You pay money (pray), choose your drink (ask for something). You ask for one drink. God gives you two. Unfortunately, neither drink is what you asked for!
Well, God gives us what we need, not what we want. Here's a poem I would like to share with all of you.
I asked God for strength that I might achieve.
I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.
I asked for health that I might do greater things.
I was given infirmity that I might do better things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy.
I was given poverty that I might be wise.
I asked for power that I might have the praise of men.
I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.
I was given life that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I asked for,
but everything I hoped for.
Almost despite myself,
my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.
On 12:46 AM, Elizabeth let go.
