Why I Don't Drink

Photo credit: arker from morguefile.com

Recently, we enrolled some new soldiers at the corps.  Soldiers and adherents.  Some people apologize to me, their Corps Officer, when they decide to become adherents.

I try my best to encourage them, saying that I am glad that (1) they are becoming members of the church, and (2) that they are honest enough to say that they, with God's help, are working on something in their lives.

That gave me a reason to pause and think.  Why have I made the promise not to drink?  Is it just because it's part of our tradition?  Is it merely a step to membership in the Army?

As I talked with my friend Ken, he reminded me of the vision and beauty of this commitment.  I enjoy learning from others around me, especially gentle lessons that bring more grace into my life.

Paul said, "Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a person to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble. It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall." (Romans 14:19-21)

As long as there are men and women - brothers and sisters - who struggle with alcohol, I choose to abstain because I love them.  I give that up for the sake of those I minister to, in order to support them and help them be stronger.  Even though I don't have a problem with alcohol, I also have no problem giving it up, simply because others do.

Are you also willing to give up something, not because you have a problem with addiction, but because someone else does?

What are you willing to give up for your brother or sister?