The Chain Gang

Last week when I received my “bracelet,” I was unaware of the impact that it would have on me. I jokingly said to myself that I am know part of the Willowdale Chain Gang. As the week wore on, and the annoyance of my chain grew (trying to sleep, shower, jog, etc.) , I started to think more deeply about the chain. I thought about the underlying meaning - the simple promise of being set free by being “chained” to the Christian faith.

For the first few days, I felt that I was chained to the Christian faith, but struggled to feel completely set free. By the third day, I knew the real meaning behind the chain. I had to figure out what was holding me back to truly being "chained" to my faith.

My thoughts turned inward. As important as my wife and family are to me, I still put myself first at times. It was time to start putting Ephesians 5:25, 28 into action. I needed to love my wife not only when it was convenient, but rather all of the time. I needed to love her “as Christ loved the church” and as I love my “own body.” I also needed to practice my patience. I have plenty of opportunities with three young daughters.

Looking outward, I admit that I was uneasy wearing this chain into the workplace. I received many strange stares throughout the week; however, nobody asked the question that I was dreading, “Why are you wearing that chain?” Whew... On Saturday afternoon, my neighbors stopped by with their kids and the question came... I responded as I had been practicing all week in my head, “I am wearing it, along with others from my church, during lent to remind me of the ways that I am hindered in my Christian walk and to remind me that if I am truly “chained” to my faith, I will be set-free.” They stood speechless for a few moments and then said, “We thought that it was some type of rock star bracelet...” They couldn't have been too spooked, because they continued to let their kids play with mine and we continued on with our previous conversation. Hopefully, a seed was planted...

Upon further thought, I recognized a major difference between the Willowdale Chain Gang and a traditional chain gang. The latter is forced into action and the former chooses to take action. I hope that I continue to choose the path to freedom.

This has been a quick summary of my first week as a member of the Willowdale Chain Gang... I'd love to hear about yours.