Thursday, January 31, 2013

Judging Samson



                The Bible dares to include stories of good people doing bad things.  One such story is of a man named Samson and is recorded in the book of Judges.  Ironically, many of us feel the need to JUDGE Samson’s life (as well as the lives of many others).  We ask questions like: “Was Samson a man of God who was loyal and dedicated?”   “Did he live his life for God or for himself?”  “How good a guy was Samson, really?”  And my favorite, “How does my life compare with Samson’s?”  Samson was supposed to be dedicated to the Lord but was consistently impulsive and angry.

                We ask questions of judgment all the time about the Samsons of our day; whether it is about our neighbors, acquaintances, coworkers, and many others.   In fact, I constantly size myself up with people that I ought not.  The Bible encourages us not to compare ourselves; that it is unwise (2 Cor. 10:12).  I wish I could tell you that I don’t judge people.  What I can tell you, honestly, is that I’m slowly getting better at not.

                There is not much good to find in the record of Samson’s life, and it would be easy to pass him off as a selfish, egotistical jerk who manipulated others to get his way.  He committed fits of rage; married an ungodly woman outside of his heritage; slept with a prostitute; murdered thousands of people in an act of war; and sought revenge rather than pardon.  Yet, for some strange reason, Samson is listed as a hero of faith in Hebrews 11:32.

                It seems to me that God is willing to overlook a lifetime of failure for a moment of faith. 

               I have to tell you – that relieves me!  But then, why am I so quick to categorize people into cute little boxes labeled: “Sainthood,” “Decent,” “Fence-Rider,” “Sinner,” and “Hellbound”?  Why must I project the hatred I have of my own failures onto others?  The truth is if God is willing to love all people and to forgive upon request (no matter how often), then so should I.

               "God, help me to see people through Your eyes.  When the Samsons in my life perform selfishly and arguably in evil ways, remind me of Your great mercy - not only for me, but also for the many undeserving 'Samsons' that are mentioned in Your book as friends!"