Tag Archives: reject

Double Trouble: One Foot in Heaven and the Other in Hell

Anna Chapman, Klaus Fuchs and Frank Abagnale Jr. all have one thing in common, each lived a secret life as a spy for years until eventually having their cover blown.  Even in a normal day to day setting, the desire to be accepted socially does persuade some to become fake, afraid that others will reject who they really are.  Thus, when a student enters college as a freshman, some chose to blend in, living a double life.

I fell into this trap during the years at the University of Delaware.  For a semester, I was one of the most popular freshman on campus, known as one of the 4 horsemen, getting all the invites to parties, hanging out late and playing sports on “the Beach” in place of studying.  When no one was looking, I snuck out of my dorm to attend the Fellowship of Christian Athletes meeting once a week as a close Christian.  Essentially, I limited my faith to once a week, for an hour, with one foot in heaven and the other in hell.

Unfortunately, this cycle repeated itself during my senior year of college.  Although my faith was not hidden at school, the summer provided a leave of absence from God, indulging in the pleasures on earth.  While not everything I did was evil, I spent too much time dangling on the fence.  I was the epitome of lukewarm, following in the footsteps of the church at Laodicea, Revelation 3:15-16.  This act of double trouble forced me to make a decision, should I stay or should I go?  Though it has not been smooth sailing, I’d rather be on a narrow path than a road that leads to destruction, Matthew 7:13-14.

by Jay Mankus

Lead… Don’t Drive!

Cowboys and Shepherds?  Unfortunately, this book never made it off the presses; replaced by Cowboys and Indians.  While toy manufactures likely made millions manufacturing bow and arrows, cap guns and miniature figurines to simulate battles, the differences between cowboys and shepherds must be distinguished.

Cowboys lead from behind, driving and prodding the herd in the direction they desire.  Today, a growing number of executives, managers and politicians live by the motto, “do what I say, not as I do!”  Like a bully pulpit, modern leaders are actively forcing, whipping and yelling the masses into submission.  Unlike cattle, individuals are rejecting this style of supervision, speaking out, yearning for a genuine sheriff to lead the way.

Meanwhile, the shepherd is out front, looking in the distance for any obstacles that might harm his or her flock.  If any sheep wander off, the shepherd will persist until each comes back safely, Luke 15:1-7.  Although, their voice might be raised, the shepherd earns the respect of the flock over time, John 10:1-16.  When people in power begin to lead by example, followers will begin lining up, eager to serve.  Lead… Don’t drive!

by Jay Mankus