Me, You and Samson

In my forty years of ministry, I have preached on Samson (Judges 13-16) many times.  But never have I understood him like I do now.  In fact before I used the story of Samson in church camp among kids.  The story of Samson and his feats are exciting and mind boggling.  It seemed to resonate with kids quite well.  But as I started preparing to present Samson to adults, I began to see a different theme rising from this text.  Now it is more than a powerful man serving a powerful God and overcoming the enemies in a delightfully powerful way.  Today I see a man like me.  In fact I see a true millennial in Samson.  He is one of us.  Samson would fit right in with today’s boomer, buster and generation X’er.

     Samson is “a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.”  So too is my life.  I seem to be confused and confident at the same time.  I seem to have answers for life yet at the same time deliriously groping for what to do next.  I seem to have not measured up to the expectations my parent, friends, God and even myself have placed upon me.  I seem to have missed my potential.

     That is the story of Samson.  A wasted life!  He is what could have been.  He is what should have been.  I can’t hardly wait to share the exploits of Samson.  Check it out for yourself and see if there is not a lot Samson in you.  Yes you!  Are you living up to your potential? 

     Samson had three sins that are common to modern man (and woman).  In the weeks ahead I will expose these sins and put the spotlight on Samson.  However, those who desire to please God will not be able to resist seeing yourself and hopefully solving the mystery of your own life