I love to watch chimpanzees “in person”
(or would that be “in monkey?”) and on television documentaries. They are so
“human.” At least they give us insight into humanity.
I was watching one of those documentaries
the other day, and a family of chimpanzees was featured. I could hardly take my
eyes off those black, hairy creatures. They played, they “talked,” they fought,
they scavenged for food, and babies suckled on their mother’s breasts.
And then there was The Patriarch. The local
anthropologist had given him the name “Freud.” Now we see old Freud and the
other chimps congregated together; in single file, all facing the same
direction. And we notice the monkeys’ hands. For each one is picking fleas and
other vermin off the back of the chimp immediately ahead of themselves.
This unusual sight brings a scripture to
mind. “As we therefore have opportunity, let us do good to all men, especially to the household of faith.”
(Galatians 6:10, KJV.) Even monkeys instinctively follow after this
commandment.
I think the apes put us to shame. For there are those among us who, though professing to be righteous, find a way to ignore the plea of the poor and helpless. We're just too busy. We have our own agendas. There's just no time.
We ought to help where we can, “for to him
that knows to do good, but does it
not, to him it is sin.” (James 4:17, KJV)
But there is also room for “down time.” I
find myself watching Freud again. The old Patriarch Chimp feels compelled to
get away. And get away he does. It is unusual for the Alpha Male to leave his
charges, but Freud begins to walk, and his walk takes him deeper and higher
into the jungle. Finally, the Old Chimp stops, and lies down on a bed of
leaves. Ahh. Rest is so sweet. Freud’s eyes register absolute peace, and I find
myself smiling.
Our Lord found a way to minister, and He
also found a way to rest. Both were fundamental to His life. How much more to
ours?
By William McDonald, PhD. Excerpt from "Unconventional Devotions" Copyright 2005
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