"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed
by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and
acceptable, and perfect, will of God." (Romans 12:2 KJV)
Jack Patrick was
just one of the usual tough, uncouth, young boys of our rough
neighbourhood. Like the rest of us, he had a command of bad language and
his share of bad habits. But Jesus found him and the change was quite
evident. He became a different person.
The war had just ended and
surplus Harley Davidson motorbikes went on sale for a mere forty-five
pounds. Jack bought one, but the throttle grip on the right handlebar
was too loose to accelerate the motor. One of the local denizens came to
light with the suggestion that a short length of bicycle tube be
threaded over the handle. The piece of tube proved very difficult to
shift over the Harley's handle. But Jack persevered and the job was
done. However, the grease that was applied to make the tubing slide,
split the tube along its seam, and it peeled off and fell onto the
ground. The Jack of by-gone days would have spent prolonged moments in a
volley of maledictions, but instead, he lifted his face to the heavens
and sang, "Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul!" This was to the
amazement of many onlookers. "Therefore the world knoweth us not,
because it knew him not." (1 John 3:1b KJV)
How patient we should
be with everyone around us, since we do not know the changes that God
knows of. Should we not wait and see how our youth might surprise us? It
is God who directs. I shall ever treasure the elation of seeing my
students mature through the years to take up their responsibilities in
later years.
Prayer: Gracious Father, keep ever fresh in our
minds the wondrous thought that You have a perfect plan for all Your
sons and daughters. May we never forget that all living souls, be they
ever so righteous or vile, are Your work in progress. Amen.
Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada
