Distorted truth
The book of Numbers, has a memorable scene in which the section of the wandering Israelites are overcome by a “gluttonous craving.” They are perfectly well fed on manna. Yet they are demanding the meat, fish, melons, cucumbers, garlic, leeks and onions that they say they got “for free” in Egypt. They add that what they have now are empty stomachs and “nothing at all, but this manna to look at.” Things were better before they left Egypt, they are suggesting. Moses and God are appalled.What’s up with these people? But a better question in response to this story is and does this happen to me?
First off, what’s with the lies? Their recollection of Egypt is distorted. The people did not have plentiful, free delicacies — they were slaves. They didn’t even have enough straw to make bricks. Plus, their current situation doesn’t seem to warrant negativity. The manna isn’t just to look at, they eat it aplenty, with two days’ worth on Fridays! But the riffraff are fomenting baseless discontent, and the general population is taking it to heart. Consider the messages as to why we don’t invite our friends to take a closer look at Christ running through your mind, and ask yourself three questions: Is this true? Is it moral? And is it helpful? Invite someone today to take a closer look at Christ and his church
