There is a monastery in Greece perched high on a cliff several hundred feet in the air. The only way to reach the monastery is to be suspended in a basket that is pulled to the top by several monks who tug with all their strength. Obviously, the ride up the steep cliff in that basket is terrifying.
One tourist got exceptionally nervous about halfway up as he noticed that the rope by which he was suspended was old and frayed. With a trembling voice, he asked a monk riding with him how often they changed the rope. The monk thought for a moment and answered, “Whenever it breaks.”
Some things should never be put off. When I recognize the need for change and correction, I need to do it now, before it is too late, before the rope breaks.
Would you believe me if I told you I had discovered a new diet where one could eat only fattening foods and yet lose weight? The diet consists of banana splits, pizza, coconut-cream pies, doughnuts, fudge—you name it. What if I told you that I had found a new alcohol recovery program that advises one to drink a quart of Scotch every hour? Or what if I told you about a new way to get in shape by sitting in front of the television, clicking away on a remote control? What if I told you that I had found a new way to get ahead in school by goofing off and playing video games?
We know none of these ridiculous suggestions will work. Why? Because we reap what we sow. Is it not time to start reading the Bible and attending worship—before the rope breaks? —adapted from Alan Smith, “Thoughts from the Day” and Greg Laurie, “Life, Any Questions?”
