INTERPRETING
SIGNS ON AN SUV

Topics: Change; Choices; Commitment; Conversion; Double-mindedness; Loyalty

References: Matthew 16:24–26; Mark 8:34–38; Luke 9:23–26; Romans 12:1–2; 2 Corinthians 6:14–18; Colossians 3:1–4; James 4:4; 1 John 2:15–17

On the way to work, I noticed some interesting signs on the SUV in front of me. The spare tire mounted on the back had the words “Texas Longhorns” and an orange, steer-head icon on it. The trailer hitch displayed another steer-head icon and the word “Texas.” The license plate frame was bordered with the words “Longhorns” on top and “University of Texas” at the bottom.

But something didn’t add up. The license plate frame was screwed into a “Land of Lincoln” license plate with a picture of old Abe on it. I live in Illinois, and the SUV’s license plate showed that this driver now did too. I assumed the owner of this SUV had moved but had not yet identified with his new home and had no plans of changing loyalties.

When we move, we often go through a slow transition of loyalties to our new home. And so it is as a Christian. When we come to Christ, the kingdom of God becomes our home, but the kingdom of this world does not easily leave our hearts. The great challenge of the Christian is to overcome divided loyalties and fully identify with God’s kingdom.

—Craig Brian Larson, Arlington Heights, Illinois