J. Davy Crockett III

“Breaking News!” blares the media as another tragic shooting, bombing, knifing, or other terroristic act occurs in a church, synagogue, or amongst any gathering of people. Just by going about daily life, people expose themselves to the real danger of being killed or injured by religious fanatics or violent, glory-seeking criminal shooters. Individuals or groups fueled by racial hatred cause death and destruction.

You have probably seen an emotional appeal while watching your favorite television program or the news. A voice filled with concern narrates an unsettling story of suffering and privation, as a shivering little dog turns its forlorn face to the camera. The narration continues cycling through images of other neglected animals, giving details of abandoned dogs and cats desperately needing shelter, food, veterinary care, and adoption by caring owners.

Times change and one generation’s meaningful metaphors are lost on the next. In an urban age of dizzying technological advances, Internet access, and an endless array of devices, earthy agricultural references lose their impact. This is lamentable since life lessons are prominently symbolized by agrarian practices in the Bible. Many colorful expressions and illustrations picture prosperity on one hand and deprivation on the other, offering spiritual lessons to be learned from each.