A Simple Parable. . .Real or Counterfeit?
As Jesus often taught in parables to illustrate a deeper truth, please allow us to share with you a simple parable that perhaps will shed some light into the issue of debt in specific relation to credit card companies.
Imagine that, over the years, your neighbor Joe has graciously loaned you $20 here and there to cover gas fillups, a hot dog & lemonade at the ballpark, and other little events that found you short on cash. Each time you paid him back and your record of stewardship in Joe's eyes was solid.
However, one particular month you find yourself very much behind on your bills and, needing some money to get you through the month, you approach dependable Joe saying,"I'm really embarrassed to ask you this Joe, but things are very tight for us right now and we're finding ourselves in a bit of a bind. Could you loan us $1000?"
With his usual willingness, Joe hands you ten $100 bills and says,"No problem, you have always paid me back before, so I have no reservations about helping you. In fact, I'm glad to do it!" You take the money and pay your energy bill, purchase some groceries, and send some checks to several creditors - each time the vendors accepting payment with no problem whatsoever.
Several days later, you look out your living room window only to see Joe being lead into the back of a squad car handcuffed & humiliated. Come to find out that dependable Joe was printing new money in his basement!
Here is the dilemma in which you are now confronted: Do you owe Joe $1000?
You spent the money he gave you.
You received goods & services - many of the items still in your home!
Your vendors & creditors freely accepted your payments as did the bank in which you deposited the money.
We believe the answer is no. And here's how this story relates to the credit card companies. . .
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