In 1945, President Harry Truman was given a gift, a sign that simply read “The Buck Stops Here”. Being displayed on his desk for years, this sign would serve as a statement of responsibility and a reminder that at some point, the “buck” – or marker – can no longer be passed. He must take responsibility.
The practice of “passing the buck” is demonstrated all too well when Moses reservedly replied to God’s choosing of him to go to Pharaoh, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” (Exodus 3:11) Over and over again, God would provide for Moses answers, signs, and wonders. Each time, Moses would reply with another reason why he shouldn’t be the one who was sent or why he couldn’t go. Finally, the Bible records for us that God’s anger was kindled against Moses when he cried out saying, “O my Lord, please send by the hand of whomever else You may send.” (Exodus 4: 13)
As a contrast, when the major prophet, Isaiah, was allowed to see a vision of the throne room recorded in Isaiah chapter 6, we read of the Lord asking the question, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” (v. 8) Someone needed to go tell the people of Israel of the pending hardships due to sin, but who? Apparently, Isaiah didn’t look around for someone else to step up. He boldly volunteered with the ever so famous phrase, “Here am I! Send me.” (v. 8)
What is it that makes the difference between “passing the buck” and “the buck stops here”? Simply put, the difference centers around one being willing to take responsibility for actions, decisions, and words spoken. The buck has to stop somewhere, especially when it comes to reaching the lost and functioning within the body of Christ. May we each resolve to be the one who holds the “buck” when passed to us.
May God bless you this week as you walk with HIM!
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