But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57

The company Sports Authority is shutting down.

Unable to reorganize their debts or do anything else which might have bought the high-end sports clothing and equipment retailer more time, it was decided to sell the stores and let their employees search elsewhere for employment.

That means some 14,000 people were let go. That's 14,000!

Now we wouldn't want you to think that nobody profits from such a closing. Those folks who took advantage of the sale prices at the Sports Authority stores came away with some pretty amazing bargains. And there's one other "group" that also expressed a desire to cash in on the store closings.

This other group is four of the top executives of Sports Authority who asked for a "bankruptcy bonus." Now if you've never heard of a bankruptcy bonus, let me explain: it's money paid out to people to make sure the company stays on budget as it closes. In the case of Sports Authority these executives wanted to be paid almost $3 million!

The request was not well-received by most of the other ex-employees who are getting zero.

Their reasoning was simple: "Why pay extra to those folks who were entrusted with piloting our company through changing times? Why give a bonus to those who failed at keeping the company competitive?"

Apparently, Judge Mary Walrath agrees and has ruled the request, "Inappropriate."

Over the centuries there have been a great many leaders who have disappointed their followers.

* There have been government officials who promised to fix society.

* There have been medical quacks who said they could heal every disease.

* There have been companies who manufactured products to satisfy our needs.

Tragically, these deals which sound too good to be true have proven themselves to be exactly that. They were promises made by sinners who didn't have the power or ability to deliver on all they suggested.

In contrast we have a Savior who has kept every promise He has ever made. His work of redemption forgives our sins and saves our souls. His promise to be with us always continues to be a source of comfort to millions. His strength has lifted up the helpless; His love has comforted the lonely.

Because of that we agree with the hymn-writer who penned, "Jesus, Savior, pilot me, Over life's tempestuous sea; Unknown waves before me roll, Hiding rock and treacherous shoal. Chart and compass come from Thee: Jesus, Savior, pilot me ... When at last I near the shore, And the fearful breakers roar 'Twixt me and the peaceful rest, Then, while leaning on Thy breast, May I hear Thee say to me, 'Fear not, I will pilot thee.'"

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, may we always join with the throng gathered around Your throne in heaven and say, "Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen" (Revelation 7:12b).

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: 2 Chronicles 1-3    1 Corinthians 16

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