My car recently got stolen (1990 Ford Laser). I received a call at 1 a.m. on a Sunday and heard Constable Burgess ask me when and where I last saw my car.
It was meant to be sitting on the street next to my block of units. It was found abandoned in a ditch at a neighbouring suburb – hot wired, head lights on, and engine running.
I felt violated. It had been broken into the weekend before. I thought they’d taken what they wanted and would leave it alone. Not so.
This experience brings to life for me that the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.
No, I’m not surprised that the Enemy hates me. But I’m ever more conscious of his sentiments towards me in the midst of the “inconveniences” he’s caused … (something I refer to it as “the effects of evil entering into the hearts of men”).
Thankfully, Jesus has provided a way out for all of us:
“I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.” –John 10:10b (The Message)
In light of my current situation, I find it especially challenging to hear stories like the family that can’t afford to buy a front door. (I have limited life experience and a finite mind.)
Even though I work at Compassion and even though I’ve visited Compassion children in their homes, these stories catch me off-guard every time. I have questions running through my mind:
- What does it feel like to be unable to afford what’s typically considered a basic means of security and protection in our culture?
- Do more things get stolen from this family because they’re unable to provide for themselves?
- Do they ever feel safe living in a trouble area without a door?
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