We are to serve

[Jim Spencer]

When I was in 40 Day Workshop at Barrytown, the missionaries took a break from classes and went for a walk on the grounds. When we were walking, Hyo Jin came up on his dirt bike motorcycle. He started doing "wheelies" ---spinning his motorcycle around and around. The missionaries stood there watching him; and then the team leader started clapping. Next thing you know, all the missionaries were clapping at this kid showing off, spinning his motorcycle. I have to admit, I felt a little strange at the adulation that was being given to Hyo Jin. I now realize that when a child grows up being venerated (aside from healthy-self-esteem building)---bad results can happen. The child can lose the proper self-perspective and can become spoiled and self-centered.

When I was a missionary in Saudi Arabia, I worked for a rich Saudi/Lebannese man. I was the manager of a large health club. His son, Yusef (who I called Useless), was a completely self-centered, spoiled, rich mans son. He was addicted and evil; as was his Father.

God trains his children through having them go through much discipline and rigorous training--along with much love.

A person might think that dysfunctional behavior is caused by blood lineage with Satan. But I have found many simple people to have high moral standards and loving, serving, attitudes---and supposedly sacred people to have low standards. This cannot be explained away to a person that is willing to follow truth where ever it leads. God does love all His children equally. That's why it is said, "God is no respector of persons".