According to Webster, a fool demonstrates imprudence, silly behavior and unwise acts. Today, it doesn’t take much effort to recognize foolishness in our culture. Idiots, imbeciles and morons are making millions as reality TV stars. Whether its the annoying person on Survivor, the American Idol contestant who can’t sing a lick or drunks on Moonshiners, some where along the way being foolish is now cool, especially if you can amuse others with laughter.
If there was an uncensored version of the Bible, I’m sure Moses muttered numerous things under his breath as he tried to lead a nation of fools into God’s promised land. As Moses and Joshua listened to God for 40 days, providing guidelines for life, Aaron was holding down the fort as the high priest of Israel until they returned. Like the blind leading the blind, Aaron panicked, failed to demonstrate leadership and broke the first 2 commandments by creating a golden calf in Exodus 32. While most pastors stop their sermons here, I’ve never heard anyone speak of the purging of fools.
When the principle enters a classroom unannounced, students usually settle down, putting on their best behavior to avoid getting in trouble. Unfortunately, when Moses rolled back into camp in Exodus 32:25-28, thousands of Israelites ignored Moses’ entrance, partying like it was 1999. Like a coach or teacher trying to see who’s paying attention in class, Moses makes a challenge that is answered by the Levites, the priestly tribe, seemingly the only group disturbed by Israel’s reckless behavior. Subsequently, God purged Israel of 3000 fools, who were not willing to obey or respect God’s commands.
In the New Testament, we find a kinder, gentler God, who offers His grace to those who believe in Jesus, Ephesians 2:4-8. However, not much has changed since the days of Moses as millions are still living for the day, partying each weekend and are redefining foolishness with acts that would make Sodom and Gomorrah blush. As a circus of fools spread throughout America and across the world, may God have mercy, open the eyes of the spiritually blind and transform their lives before foolish acts result in death and destruction.
by Jay Mankus
