“Tom, You Answer the Door”

  This is what my wife always says when the Jehovah Witnesses appear at our door. I like to be knowledgeable about varying views, so I’m usually willing to hear them out. Here is a sample of self-examination questions from one of their recent pamphlets (with slight paraphrases):

  “Does my career serve as a means of support, or am I really a slave to it? Does it make demands that are ruining my health? Do I spend so much time on recreational pursuits that this crowds out more important things? Is personal happiness my first consideration? Do I treat my mate with honor, as one who is entitled to personal dignity? Do I spend time with my children, or do I expect toys, TV, and or a computer to keep them occupied? What dictates the attention I give to my appearance and my possessions? In order to maintain a comfortable life-style, do I push God into second place?”

  Hey, I don’t agree with all the theology of the people at my door. And I laughed aloud when they told me the current financial crisis was predicted in the Bible. But these are excellent questions. As serious Christians, we should always want to objectively evaluate our thoughts and conduct.