These things happened to them to serve as an example, and they were written down to instruct us, on whom the ends of the ages have come. So if you think you are standing, watch out that you do not fall.” vss. 11-12
1 Corinthians 10:6-13
Paul was obviously a brilliant person, but he seems hopelessly naive in thinking that the Corinthians are going to learn lessons from the behaviors of their ancestors. If they did learn anything, it would be pretty much of a miracle, because we know from our own experiences that humans are dense when it comes to learning lessons from the past. Instead we do the same hurtful things that others have done before us. That’s why we keep waging murderous and violent wars again and again. In fact, the leaders of AA tell us that the definition of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over, each time expecting different results.” Many parents know this human frailty from watching their children grow up. No matter how many times they are warned about self-destructive behavior, sometimes from personal experience, they seem to pay little attention. Of course, we can’t give up attempting to instruct succeeding generations–like Paul we’re obligated to teach our children and lift up the sins of the past. And some will listen! Some do learn and their lives are blessed. And even if they continue to stumble and fall, our merciful God will never forsake them!
Thought for the Day: What lessons did I learn from my parents?
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