The Bet of Your Life
I walked past those who had come with a glimmer of hope, seeking a solution for their plight, while others had come to simply be entertained. Still others were there in anticipation of satisfying their appetite with endless arrays of succulent delicacies. I looked upon their faces, each one so conformed to their dispositions in life, and I pondered as to their character of ancestry. Each face so unique as to itself as though, through their lineage of past generations, was attempting to convey a message to me. My attention was diverted by the sound of shouting, to the joy and somewhat envy, of spectators and participants. Hope had been realized and yet, so few faces beheld that virtue. Most faces were serious and deep into their activities, while others were simply busy going through the motions as if they were just automated humanoids.
Driving to this destination, I was mesmerized by the allurements of its advertising strategies. Smiling faces with such joy and hope, surrounded by bodies of humanity concurring with the adage, "Eat, drink, and be merry; for tomorrow we die!" Once inside its den, I noticed the bright lights and colors, enticing the eyes while the sounds of machines with their melodies pulsating within my ears. Each machine with its unique blend of noise and melody catching the attention of those near. I noticed the indication of time was absent, as there were no devices by which time was to be measured. No clocks were visible within its walls, as if time was being suspended. It was breathtaking and intoxicating to my senses.
Drinks of alcoholic content were flowing as with an endless source while television sets were transporting its viewers to competitive sporting events. The atmosphere was filled with a slight haze of smoke as individuals addicted to its substance, inhaled and exhaled, void of any expression of concern as to loss or win. Upon further observation, it was noted that loud music, pleasant scents, and freezing air-conditioning keep players awake, giving everyone a boost of euphoric adrenaline, oblivious to its subtlety. Exits are such that they don't allow visible light into where the players are playing. Money flowing effortlessly, exchanging hands as if with no obvious cares. What drives this impulse to diverse oneself of its value and worth, to that of a token of momentary bliss.
Everyone who enters its boundaries comes knowing it will be with cost. The "House" always wins. So many of its clientele are good, honest, hardworking people. Their reasons for coming are as unique as to themselves yet share a common mind with everyone. Could it be an escape from the harsh realities of their lives or life in general? Possibly, for a good time with friends, while dining at its buffets and restaurants with the excitement of celebrity bands, reminiscent of our youth, while transporting them to a free-spirited time before obligations and responsibilities consumed our attention. I do not hold any in contempt, yet my mind was troubled and my heart vexed. Their carnality is certainly being ingratiated while their soul may languish.
How many people attend church with the approach of going to a casino! Is it hope that entices them or the allurement of religion? Could it be of its anticipation of encountering our Lord Jesus Christ as the celebrity of our hopes and dreams, bringing us back to our innocence and joy. Our eyes are transfixed upon every person there, as they come with their petitions and prayers, as to the concerns of their lives. Each face, each heart unique to themselves. The sights and the smells of heavenly realities in community with other believers as we come to the banquet table of the Lord to feast upon His love and mercy. The colors and the sounds as our voices express the hopes and joys of our soul, as its music rises to the heights of Heaven itself. We feast on His Word as it nourishes and enriches our spirit. So should it be!
I look and observe. Money is sparse as the offering is passed. I know its worth and value, I have obligations and responsibilities to consider. Money doesn't come easy. Many dress so casually, that are better dressed when going to a casino. Imagine, if people entered church with the same mentality as they entered a casino and the same mentality as entering a casino, as with entering a church! Is life a game of chance with only two destinations? Are you gambling on eternity? The House always wins! God always wins. It is the bet of your life. God is the sure thing. See beyond the haze of smoke and allurements of your carnality into TRUE LIGHT.