The Prod and the Crook - David H. Lauten

 


I spent many Saturdays growing up in Texas helping a friend on their family ranch. Among my memories is the use of the prod and the crook. The electric prod sends a small shock which stimulates bovine movement. A gentle twist of the crook around the neck of a sheep ensures retrieval success.

Each instrument has its place. Each tool is suited for a particular use. To move a stubborn or scared cow, or retrieve a strayed sheep, the prod and the crook have their place. Other tactics are less effective.  

Years ago, I turned in my chaps and the care for cattle and sheep for the well-being of God’s dear flock. As many tools have been crafted in animal husbandry, God has also forged tools that his flock may be forfeited in the faith.

The glory of the gospel is that sinners are saved by Christ alone;by God’s rich grace through the instrument of faith alone - all apart from human works. As new creation united to Jesus, we long to grow in a true and living knowledge of our God. 

Prayer, the reading and faithful preaching of the Word, and the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper are the leading tools God has given to build us up in the faith. These are designed to confirm our trust in Christ, help us flee from sin and become more like Jesus in our character.

Other tools than the prod and the crook can be used with cows and sheep. But they are less effective. The means to grow in grace are also effective. They are given by God who promises to use them for his glory and good in our lives. Prayer, the Word of God and the Sacraments are tried and true tools that we may know Jesus and become increasingly conformed to his image.

Why resort to other, lesser tools, to do the job? Novelty, popularity and pragmatism may underly the departure from these God-given means of grace. We depart from the God’s good and gracious methods at our own spiritual peril. We have a confidence that God will use the means of grace he has ordained. Let us make much of prayer, the Word and the sacraments!

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