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Verse:The LORD shall judge the people; judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness, and according to mine integrity that is in me. —Psalm 7:8, KJV
I peered at the envelope, alarmed at what I saw written on it.
As I anxiously opened it, to my dismay, it stated that I had run a red light. I clearly remembered the date I went to the city; however, I could not remember running a red light. “Lord, I don’t remember running a red light. I will call and contest the charges.” When I called, I was advised of the steps I needed to take. I was given extra time before my case appeared in court, and on the day I needed to appear, I prayed, and my cousin offered to pray also. I drove to the city, making certain to arrive early. I announced my arrival to the clerk and told him my story, and he assured me that the judge might pardon me. Four or five cases were called before my name was called. After the judge read the charges, he asked, “Miss Hines, do you have anything to say in your defense?” “Yes, Your Honor, I honestly did not know I had run a red light. I had been to the doctor for a procedure on my lower leg, and I was in pain. I am sorry.” I apologized again and added, “I am asking for mercy, Your Honor.” The ticket was for a significant amount, so I asked for mercy again, but to my dismay, none was granted.
In fact, an extra fee was added to the ticket.
I was horrified and visibly shaken. No pity was shown.
No mercy granted. I said to God, “Lord, I prayed! My cousin prayed, and You did not answer my prayer!” Immediately, I sensed the Lord say, “Yes, I did.” The realization finally struck me. I was not prepared, I thought. I had more than a month to pray and fast, and I waited to pray until the night before and the morning of my trial. I remembered that some problems required fasting and much prayer. I also remembered the five foolish virgins who were unprepared for the coming of the bridegroom. They were shown no mercy. The door closed on them.
My friends, we must be prepared.
We must be ready, for the Righteous Judge will be coming soon, unannounced, and only those who have made preparations will be ready to enter the marriage feast of the Lamb.
Patricia Hines