LET'S MAKE A DEAL

Monty Hall was a classic deal maker. The predecessor of Deal Or No Deal, Let's Make a Deal entertained tv audiences for close to three decades, I'd guess. You remember the scenario, pick one of three doors for prizes or zonks, the latter being laughable booby prizes.

The contestants could also trade for cash, unknown amount of course, another door, or something unseen under a cover of sorts. Well, you could only trade until you got something bad, then you were stuck.

Thankfully, that's not the way God's door works. He takes all our bad, our old Adam ways and exchanges them for good. Every time. There's nothing hidden. Everything's out in the open, above board, no surprises. And, no disappointments.

Have you ever heard of anyone who was sorry that he/she followed Jesus? Have you ever heard of anyone that talked about being a Christian and preferring another way of life, or returning to their old ways? Before you disagree with me because you know of people that used to walk with the Lord, but now don't, please let me finish. Have you ever known anyone who returned to their old ways and was happy?

I know people who have left the church. They went back through the door that was opened to them. But I don't know any that are happy. Memory loss or pushed back memories or hurt that they cannot get over or excessive pride, I don't profess to know the reasons people leave church, but anger should be included as well. Maybe at the top of the list. But, again, angry people aren't happy people.

If you were once a church-goer, or if you've not been a church-goer, then I simply ask you to open that door. Attend one service at the church of your choice. "I've been to church. I don't go becasue of the hypocrites there." If that's your attitude, then go to another church. Just once this week.

All it will cost you is your time. You will feel better. Guaranteed. You might even see me there, because if it's Sunday, I'll be worshipping somewhere. And that's the deal: you go to church this week and I will, too. Or as a former Sunday School Director Russell Laur would always say,"You be in your place, and I'll be in mine."