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Right and Proud of It

"Before you leave the house," I instructed, "you should make sure you put everything you need in their proper places. Preferably do this the night before so you won't waste time the following morning."

"Then before you start the car," I added, "you should make sure you're comfortable. Check your seat to be sure it’s positioned appropriately. Check the steering wheel. Check to see that your seat belt is fastened properly. Check all the instruments. You see I always put my Bible in the car on Saturday night. That way I don’t forget it."

At this point my wife was breathing deeply.  She seemed annoyed at my Sunday sermon but she said nothing. Then halfway to church she exclaimed, "Oh no! I can't believe this.  I forgot my Bible."

"As I was saying," I continued, "if you had put your Bible in the car last night...well, it’s too late to go back for it now," I reprimanded. "You can share mine."

I glanced at Arlette. She was drumming her fingers against her purse. "You should..." I stopped mid-sentence. I could tell I was in hot water.

But still - I knew I was right.

As I swung into the church parking lot I took a deep breath. There's nothing to worry about, I consoled myself silently. If a person just thinks ahead, he or she won’t forget the essentials - like credit cards and one's Bible, for heaven's sake.

We got out of the car, and as was my habit, I checked my back pocket to be sure my wallet was in place.

Suddenly my face turned hot and my palms were wet.

"Oh, no," I muttered, "I forgot my wallet. My credit cards and my driver's license are at home."

"Is that so?" my wife queried with great calm. It was all she really needed to say.

What I needed to say, Lord, was, "Please forgive me," but I hung on to my pride. I regret that now. I know it's never too late to apologize. Excuse me, Lord, while I take care of some important business with my wife.

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