Fiddling as Rome Burns –
There is considerable doubt as to whether this event ever took place, but the underlying point is all too common. It means “to occupy oneself with unimportant matters and neglect priorities during a crisis.” Many Kingdoms have risen and fallen since Rome finally fell and were accompanied by great loss.
One such example was the French Revolution. The French monarchy was known for extravagance while the common people suffered. When told the people were starving, Marie Antoinette said, “Let them eat cake.” A popular revolt resulted in the death of Marie and many powerful people. I’m sure some saw the problem, but they enjoyed their privilege and wanted to keep it at any cost. Did they regret their priorities before they were executed?
Another example was the Joseon Dynasty of Korea. It lasted for five centuries and saw great advances and accomplishment eventually come to nothing. Political infighting left the government weak and impotent. Personal greed for wealth and power led the county to poverty and ruin. Maybe some realized their error as their enemies plundered what was left of that once great Empire.
This story has unfolded again and again in history, yet our country is following the same script. Political infighting fills the headlines as our enemies build their strength. The takers are fired up with promises of more benefits by self-serving politicians, as the producers struggle under increasing taxes. Terrorist threaten our homeland and judges block efforts to stem their flow into our country. Our policemen risk their own futures as they try to protect ours. As the world becomes more dangerous, political violence threatens the foundations of our democracy. Can we change our direction before it is too late?
There is another story often repeated, but few learned from it. With the stakes so high you would think there would be a better response. JESUS said, “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life” (John 10:10 KJV). This has been known for over 2000 years, yet most people choose to serve the thief and be robbed, killed and destroyed. With their brief lives quickly coming to a close, why don’t people choose life? “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 KJV). Stop fiddling around and choose life!
Wayne Lance (2017)