The Watchman

“I, the Lord, am its keeper.  I water it ever moment so that no one will damage it.  I guard it night and day.”  Isaiah 27:3

I am not much on confrontation, and I usually try to keep the peace whenever possible, but last Saturday a situation arose which challenged my normal peaceful personality.

I arrived to my usual water aerobics class to find the instructor a little befuddled, and a lone swimmer occupying a lane that normally belongs to the class.  The class has the pool from 9-10 every morning Monday-Saturday, and everyone (we thought) knows that.  It seems that this guy refused to leave the pool and told the instructor that with only five people in the class, he would continue to swim!  The Nerve!!

More people arrived for class, and the instructor approached the swimmer to let him know that he would have to leave.  The guy began to argue with her, and shortly, the situation escalated.  We were all shocked, and a little concerned. During the exchange, I noticed a huge man enter the area and walk over to the hot tub, but he didn’t say a word – he only got in and watched.  The swimmer continued to argue as the rest of us were looking for assistance from the staff there, but no one was acknowledging us.  As I looked for help, I saw the man in the hot tub silently keeping watch.  In a moment, he said, “Dude, you are wrong.  Why don’t you just get out and leave the ladies alone?”  The swimmer ignored him and continued his anti mated protest.  By this time, staff members were making their way there.  The man in the hot tub never moved in a threatening way, but he watched as if making sure we were all okay.  He was ready if we couldn’t handle it.  Finally, the swimmer gave up and left!

I like to think of Jesus in that light.  He is always there watching, but he has given us the gifts to handle our situations in life.  He will offer His help, but He never forces His will on us.  We have to choose to accept it or reject it.  Whatever our choice, He is always there watching, waiting, and protecting.  As we enter this Advent season and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, I pray we will be aware of the Watchman!

“I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free;  for His eye is on the sparrow; and I know He watches me.”  His Eye Is On the Sparrow

Picture is of Chief and Manning – watch dogs extraordinaire!