When the whole world was wiped out by the flood, Noah and his family survived by building the Ark. Daniel was accused of praying to God and thrown into a den of starving lions. But he was rescued alive. Persons of faith like them overcame all slanders with unshakable faith in God. The evil works of the Devil slandered them in all ways. But they overcame all slanders and kept faith in the word of God. As the result, they were greatly blessed by God.
We should not slander others. We should not be slandered in any way, any words, or any actions. We should not be slandered by looking at things, by thoughts, or by listening any things. We may experience unexpected mocking and blames when we live according to God's will. Even in that situation, we should stay calm and be influenced only by His words. Salmons have the instinct to return to their birthplaces.
Salmons are born in spring water. They live in rivers for 1 year and move to the oceans. Living in the ocean for 4 years, their bones and flashes get strong. At the season of spawning, they return to their birthplace, get married and spawn. When salmons with silver scales return to their birthplace, they should overcome fierce water streams and jump up against the waterfall.
During their journey, they could die being dumped against rocks breaking gills and mouths. Their predators could eat them. However, salmons swim against the river waters to return to their homelands. No matter what slanders they could get, they return to their homeland and spawn. Then they die.
Our souls came from God. No matter what kind of slander you may receive, you should return to God just like salmons return to their homeland.
At the last moment of our lives, our bodies will return to dust on the ground. That time, our soul should return to God.
Pastor Seok-Jeon Yoon
Extracted from Yonsei Newspaper #718
