“…for all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Luke 18:14, NIV).

 

     Several years ago, I visited the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility in Lucasville, Ohio. I was part of a team that participated in a ministry conference within the prison walls. I recall doctors, teachers, businessmen, and pastors sitting and praying side-by-side with robbers, rapists, and murderers.

“When they were all full, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces left over; let us not waste a bit” (John 6:12, GNT).

 

My watch is no longer working properly. I have had the device for only a few years. Planned obsolescence is the reason, so I’m told.

 

It seems that many things made today are not built to last. From electronics to motor vehicles, clothing to major league sport rosters, most consumables are produced with a short shelf life in mind. In many instances, it’s more expensive to repair an item than to replace it. Such is life in a disposable society.

     Bible scholar, John Phillips, once told the fable of a king who had two sons. The sons came to their father with a question: “Is a gentleman made or born?” The king replied, “Well, what do you think?” The first son responded, “I think that a gentleman is born a gentleman.” The other son disagreed saying, “No, I believe a gentleman becomes a gentleman by training and discipline.” So, the king issued a challenge. “Each of you will receive a chance to prove your case by presenting me with proof of your opinions a week from today.”