A ride in an open field with views of floating white clouds, blue skies, lush trees, grey mountains, a glistening river flowing into a reflective lake, and a person loved is an afternoon warmth. The rider knows his destination and the reason for the course. The horse however does not understand the purpose nor reason of the journey. Can a mule know the best course? They must be controlled by the bit and bridle or they will not come to and with you. God’s servants must be wiser than beasts, more open to God’s will than horses and mules are to the will of their masters.
“Hear, O heavens! Listen, O earth! For the LORD has spoken: ‘I reared children and brought them up, but they have rebelled against me. The ox knows his master, the donkey his owner’s manger, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.’ Ah, sinful nation, a people loaded with guilt, a brood of evildoers, children given to corruption! They have forsaken the LORD; they have spurned the Holy One of Israel and turned their backs on him. Why should you be beaten anymore? Why do you persist in rebellion? Your whole head is injured, your whole heart afflicted. From the sole of your foot to the top of your head there is no soundness– only wounds and welts and open sores, not cleansed or bandaged or soothed with oil.” (Isaiah 1:2-6)
