CURSE THE WOODCHUCK!!!

If you often have trouble sleeping try reading Psalms 3 and 4. David, running for his life and surrounded by his son, Absalom’s rebellious army, wrote in Psalm 3:5, “I sleep and wake up refreshed because You, Lord protect me.” Psalm 4:8 indicates the promises of God make good pillows for those who rest in Him. “I can lie down and sleep soundly because You, Lord will keep me safe”

But not during the preacher’s sermons. At least not in the early American church.

The Puritans of Colonial New England appointed what were known as “tithing men” to stroll among the pews on Sunday Mornings; alert for anyone who was prone to nod off during the long, sometimes ponderous and boring sermons. They carried long poles with feathers on one end, and thorns embedded on the other end. As a result, worshippers napped at their own peril. It seemed the results were a bit unpredictable.

Obadiah Turner of Lynn, Massachusetts wrote the following story in his journal:

“Allen Bridges has been chosen to wake sleepers in the meetings. And being much proud of his position, must needs have a fox tail fixed to the end of a long staff wherewith he may brush the faces of them who will have naps during the preaching. Likewise, a sharp thorn whereby he may prick such as be the most sound asleep.

On his last Lord’s Day to serve in his position, he strutted about the meeting house, and spying Mr. Tomlins sleeping with much comfort, Allen did swiftly thrust his staff and give him a grievous prick on the hand. With this, Mr. Tomlins did spring up from his pew, and landed hard on the floor. Waking from a deep sleep and shouted, “Curse the woodchuck!”

It seems that in the dream he dreamed a woodchuck had seized and bit his hand! But on getting a clear mind he realized it was a dream and he embarrassed himself and created quite a stir. He was so ashamed that he did not speak. And I think he will not soon again go to sleep during the meeting!”

(From a church bulletin)