WHO CARES IF HE DROWNS?

“Hey Rick, this is Peter,” the answering machine message said. “I just thought you would like to know that one of your sheep is drowning across the street.”
His message needed no further explanation. Your sheep—Anthony, a friend who I have attempted to guide away from alcohol’s destructive grip. Across the street—a bar. Drowning—intoxicated. Anthony and I had spoke less than four hours before, arranging a ride for him to church the next day.
I loathe alcohol.
Is all drinking of alcohol wrong—a sin? Drinking is present occasionally in the Bible in the it’s-O.K. category. More pronounced though, are the many stern biblical warnings and commands in the be-not-drunk category.
For me, I don’t drink.
I don’t drink because I constantly see it’s destruction in individuals, families, and our communities. I refuse to partner with that destruction.
Sure, I drove by that billboard. Wow, those women with the beer in their hands, aren’t they pretty? And those big smiles, they must be very happy. I saw that sign on the beer truck.  “CRISP, CLEAN, REFRESHING.”
Anthony didn’t attend church. But his answering machine message said: “I’m sorry I didn’t make it to church; I was sick. Call me.” Hmm, the billboard and the sign-on-the-truck promises didn’t work—no refreshing smile for Anthony.
Also, I don’t drink because its seduction is not beyond grabbing me.
And does anyone want their life to align with this Bible verse? “Drunkenness, carousing, and the like; I warn you, just as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Listen, I’m not telling you not to drink. But could you help me gather a few sheep who might be drowning? And make sure you inherit the kingdom of God.