Famous Last Words

When I was much younger, we used to learn the Famous Last Words of assorted people, including Admiral Nelson. Apparently, before he died, he said, "Kiss me, Hardy!" 

In Shakespeare's play of the same name, Julius Caesar died, saying, "Et tu, Brute!", to his oldest friend, Brutus.

I am currently reading a novel in which the hero spends a lot of his time trying to work what his last words should be in order that they become famous.

I was struck by the last words in John's first letter to the community that he pastored, which was around the city of Ephesus. Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts.' (1 John 5.21)

Having spent most of the letter addressing the issues of the nature of God and how He loves us, the final warning comes as a bit of a surprise. But on closer thought, this remark takes seriously the astonishing flow of the Bible story, which sees people of all periods of history finding it impossible to keep away from anything that might take God’s place in their hearts.'

Human beings are so easily hooked on something they can see as their latest craze or idol. We so easily become addicted to focusing our attention on stuff or celebrities, or fashions or our own plans and ease. The list is endless.

Hence, the wise old man, who loves his people dearly, ends his letter with this startling warning.

I don't know what habitually replaces God in your affections and desires, but if you are anything like me and the rest of us, you will know where you are vulnerable. 

Like me, therefore, let us choose to have God at the centre of our lives today, and to dethrone all rivals. 

'Down with the idols!' you might want to cry under your breath.

Best wishes,

Richard