|
THE DRAGNET
“Again, the
kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and
caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it
ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out
the bad. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will
come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them
into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and
gnashing of teeth.”
By high school, the issue is pretty much
settled. Except for possibly some new kids, it was decided in
junior high who would play basketball and who wouldn’t. Ten boys
try out for every available position. The coach and his
assistants judgmentally watch the tryouts. Each prospect
dribbles in and out of a line of chairs, alternating dribbling
hands at every turn. Then they do speed sprints and jumping
drills. The goal is to demonstrate superior ability. Eventually,
the head coach and his assistants call the group together for
the announcement. Names are read. A few are directed to the
“chosen” group; most are rejected.
The same process goes on in all sports,
cheerleading (I’ve been told), drama, Science Olympiad, etc.
Kids are evaluated and chosen or rejected. Those who are
rejected, except in very rare circumstances, never get another
chance. Parents can’t change the outcome. There is no appeal.
Having children who have been among the
selected sometimes and among the rejected other times, it’s a
little bit of a heaven or hell experience.
Heavenly Father, we know the day will
come when you return and reward your sheep with everlasting
life. Keep us from failing the least of your children. Grant us
the depth of faith and inspiration to do your good works, be
righteous and join you in eternal life. Amen
Keith Martin |
