Karma. What goes around, comes around. Kismet. We call it different things, but most acknowledge that it is a universal principle. In one way or another, we’ve all experienced it. Perhaps, theoretically speaking of course, you dart in front of someone at the Publix check-out line because your time is obviously much more valuable. You reason that the items in your cart are somehow more efficient to run through the scanner, and the guy behind you with the 12 pack of Natty Light is in no obvious hurry to do the Lord’s work. So you feel justified. After all, the lady in front of you is only buying cat food, Triscuits, 2 cans of Aqua Net, and a sudoku puzzle book. She’ll be on her way in no time. That would be, of course, if not for the voluminous depth of her purse and the contents therein. “I have a coupon”, she says, and you’re sure she does. For every product sold since the Carter administration, somehow still lurking in her bag. Eventually, she winnows her search to the aforementioned cat food coupons, for either different brands and sizes, or with an expiration date from the last millennium. The guy you cut off? He jumped in another line, and is already on his way home. Out of principle, you refuse to budge. I guess this is no longer theoretical, is it? Anyway, with her transaction finally completed, you make your purchase and leave the store. “Is it dark already?”
I titled this post in lieu of a news story I read a few weeks back. An illegal rhino poacher was killed by an elephant and eventually eaten by lions. Here’s the link: https://nyti.ms/2D3dGEH
What is referred to as “karma”, the Bible calls the law of sowing and reaping. It is as inescapable as it is universal. “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.”
(Galatians 6:7-8 ESV) This is true in every realm, most of all spiritually. So the next time you are in line at Publix, stuck in traffic, or otherwise considering your next move in whatever circumstance you find yourself, ask if it will bear fruit worthy of the Lord, or will demonstrate an attitude of self-centeredness. Consequences may not be swift, but they will be sure.
Side Note: I kind of chuckled when I originally saw this story, so I’m keeping a wary eye on my cat.