"Temptations come, as a general rule, when they are sought." Those words from nineteenth century Scottish novelist Margaret Oliphant reveal a marvelous understanding of human nature – an understanding few today seem to possess.

"And now for the invocation…" said the mayor of my town as the Town Council began its meeting. I was pleasantly surprised to see this practice has survived in our secular age.

The chamber of City Hall was filled with people, young and old, with business to bring before the mayor and commissioners. Some were there for kudos and awards; others had problems and complaints and were there to seek redress.

"A battle cry for Christian reform" blared a big headline in the Charlotte Observer. The article featured a picture of "one of the country's top 25 evangelical leaders" and carried a lengthy interview in which he answered questions about what Christians should be doing in today's world.

Focusing on other people's faults is a popular pastime. We seem to enjoy trying to decide who among us is the most or the least qualified. This happens in families and on the job, in churches and in the political arena.

"Who does he think he is, anyway? He can't treat me like this! Doesn't he know who I am?"