Misplaced Priorities

The new building was finished and the congregation moved in with a great deal of pride. Several members generously supplied  beautiful and expensive plants to adorn the entrance to the new structure.

To the dismay of the congregation, the plants disappeared. Several concerned souls sounded the alarm. Announcements were made. Men and women were appointed to seek the whereabouts of that which was lost. Apologies were made to the donors. For two months the missing plants were the main conversation piece at social and church gatherings. The search intensified and pleading seemed unending.

Well, the quest ended abruptly when an Elder dared to solve the problem. It took nerve to do it. Since the plants had not been found and obviously were not going to be, he dared to deal with the situation.

Standing before the congregation, he nervously began, We have heard a great deal about the missing plants. For two months announcements have been made and members encouraged to be looking out for them. For years we have known that Prodigal sons have strayed from our fold. They are lost. Each soul is more valuable than the whole world and yet we have heard not one announcement. Nor have any of us appeared to be unduly anxious or alarmed. If we had put out the same energy in locating the lost of this church that we have the lost plants, surely the angels in heaven would be rejoicing.

Suffice to say, no more was said about the plants.