“Bob trembled, and got a little nearer to the ruler. He had a momentary idea of knocking Scrooge down with it, holding him, and calling to the people in the court for help and a strait-waistcoat.”
When there is a major change in someone’s life, many people will take it for sickness or craziness. What else could explain such a marked difference in someone’s actions or personality? Today, especially, with the jettisoning of the spiritual from the culture, change is merely the result of something chemical or biological, and it can be treated.
I doubt biology or chemistry went through Bob’s mind. He just thought Scrooge was off his rocker. A raise! From Scrooge! In all the scenarios that went through Bob’s mind as he hurried to work late, a raise never crossed his mind. It wouldn’t have crossed anyone’s mind that hadn’t seen the change first hand.
This picture reminds us that when we act Christ-like in some way that we haven’t before, we should be prepared at least for some odd looks, dismissive words, and a few smirks. But let us not think that is all. In both the past and still today, people suffer far worse than being considered odd for following Christ. We should prepare ourselves from the beginning that as we grow more Christ-like, we will be less liked by the world.
Many Christians find it necessary to complain and whine at the least sign of persecution, the least sign that someone disagrees with them, the smallest insult. But we are called to rejoice in tribulation, counting it a blessing to suffer shame for the name of Jesus. It comes down to whether we are concerned about our image or Jesus’ image. Let Scrooge’s lack of concern for what others thought be an encouragement to us to live the life that God has called us to live, even if someone thinks we are crazy.
Lingering Over Leaves 