Sent:  12/31/02

Subject:  Heads or Tails?

Good Morning Ethan & Emily:

How long has it been since you flipped a coin into the air, caught it, and slapped it on your wrist and said “Heads or tails” to arrive at some decision?   This is a common practice in sports and the outcome can sometimes affect the outcome of the game.

In our study today, I would like to share with you an interesting verse that picks up on this theme.  Before the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the land promised them, Moses challenged them:  “if you listen to the commands of the Lord your God and carefully obey them, the Lord will make you the head and not the tail, and you will always have the upper hand.”  (Deuteronomy 28: 13)

Later in this discourse, Moses also alluded to these same choices and said that obedience to God’s commands is basically a choice between “life” and “death” and between “blessings” and “curses.”  (Deut. 30:19).

From a worldly standpoint, a “heads up” life would be regarded as one reflecting worldly gain and career success.  But Jesus introduced a whole new standard when he stated:  “But many who seem to be important now will be the least important then, and those who are considered least here will be the greatest then.”  (Matt. 19:30)  He further gave this description of how to define a person of success when he stated:  “The greatest among you must be a servant.” (Matt. 23:11).

So, regardless of worldly recognition or success, a “heads up” life in God’s perspective is one defined by obedience to His commands and lived out in a spirit of servitude and love for others.  Jesus Himself responded to the expert in religious law that the secret to living was found in this man’s answer concerning the law of Moses and eternal life: “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”

This kind of lifestyle does not come naturally of our flesh, and it requires making a definite and conscious choice.  Just as Moses did so many years ago, I plead with you to “choose life, that you and your descendants might live!” (Deut. 30:19b).  “Choose to love the Lord your God and to obey Him and commit yourself to Him, for He is your life.”  (Deut. 30: 20).

As we live for the Lord each day, we will be the “head” and not the “tail” and enjoy all the “breaks” and blessings that only He can provide.  As I flip your life into the air, will it land “heads” or “tails”?

Have a great day.  I love you…
Dad