“You should not steal.” -- Exodus 20:15
Jenna slipped the bracelet into her jeans and walked triumphantly past the checkout counter. Even though the crime she just committed made her jumpy, she was too good at shoplifting to get caught.
She steals inexpensive stuff not because she needs to. She steals partly because she loves the adrenaline rush and because her friends dare each other to do it. It’s fun to claim “victories” and brag about their petty heists. Today they would initiate Valerie into their “club.”
Valerie knew this was wrong. The thought of taking anything that wasn’t hers made her nauseous. But Jenna and her friends were so cool, so confident . . . so popular! Val just wanted to fit in. Big stores wouldn’t miss a few cheap items anyway.
They split up after they entered Wal-Mart. Her heart felt like it would beat right out of her chest. What if she got caught? She froze. Guilt quickly overpowered her and she chickened out.
They all laughed at her but Jenna admitted to having done the same thing her first time. There would be other chances – this had become a weekly ritual.
Val was conflicted. Like most teens, fitting in was important – but so was personal integrity. She’d seek her Grandfather’s advice. He was a great listener. He never judged her. He gave inspiring advice!
She left no details out in explaining her dilemma to him. How lucky she was to have someone who loved her so compassionately. He listened intently – his eyes never left hers. Finally she asked the crucial question, “Grandfather, what should I do?”
One is Evil. It is anger, envy, greed, self-pity, guilt, deceit, false pride and superiority.
The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, humility, kindness, generosity, empathy, truth, compassion and faith."
She thought for a minute. "Which wolf wins?" she asked.
The wise old man smiled and replied simply, "The one you feed."
Brilliant she thought, and knew exactly what to do next. Without delay she returned to Wal-Mart and emptied her purse on an empty checkout counter – partial payment for the merchandise her friends had taken. It didn’t cover all the damage – but it was a good down payment! She’d suggest to them that, “When Satan knocks at your door, simply say, Jesus, could You please get that for me?" For a kleptomaniac, shaking the shoplifting bug can take more than a prayer – but it’s a good start.
Forgive me [again] Father. I can’t count the number of times I’ve asked you to take me back. Then I just walk away again. There are lots of ways I’ve let you down. I need You to take control of my life. And help me realize those people in my life: Who matter, Who never did, and Who always will. Amen.
