"The Bandits Church"

  While traveling I get to see a lot of different sights and events. One thing that always catches my attention is this place we could call "The Bandits Church." In one place, I could not believe how lit up the place was. Lights flashing, beautiful colors and a big, big building. "The Bandits Church" was actually built into the side of a mountain face into the rock. It was really impressive!

  It made me think, "What would happen if we started preaching/teaching every single week about giving? Sacrifical giving? What would the brethren do?" The complaints would certainly come. Here were people attending "The Bandits Church" for hours and giving of their means freely. It is an absolute joy for them to give. I have read that at "The Bandits Church" people are so thrilled to give, they even used their credit cards! What else caught my attention that the brief time we were sitting across the street, I noticed it wasn't the rich that was going into "The Bandits Church." Some were common looking and others looked like they were completely down and out on their luck. Music was playing and people that went in looked enthusiastic to be there. What are we speaking about? The casino! People rushing in offering their means voluntarily so "The Bandit Church" could build bigger and better structures bringing in top entertainers. "The Bandit Church" has money and those who leave don't! They have given their all only to leave broken and empty to who knows what at home. The love for wealth has deceived them but they seem to complain little only to go back and find more funds to sacrificially give to their god. The Scriptures are true: "But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction." (I Tim. 6:9)

  Where are we putting our emphasis in life? Too many complain about certain issues in the Lord's church but when it comes down to it, how do we offer our giving freely in other places and little given to the cause of the Lord? That should make us all examine our hearts!!!