Achan was a smart man – some may say.
He could smell wealth making opportunities from afar.
He was also a brave man, daring and strong.
He joined the army to advance his cause.
Achan was a greedy man- some may say.
He should have been satisfied with his gains.
When the Amorites and were pillaged across the Jordan.
He should have been satisfied with spoils amassed.
Achan was a gullible man – some may say.
He should have known of the Urim and thumim.
The priestly tools for secrecy unravelling.
That God of Israel, all-knowing, is a revealer.
Achan was a stupid man – some may say
He put the whole nation in jeopardy;
And his loving wife and children in harms way.
Earning nothing but death in a greedy quest.
Achan was a gambler – some may say.
He knew of the prohibition but hoped for toleration.
He knew of the repercussion of death but prayed for mercy.
Oblivious of caution he staked his life for silver and gold.
Achan was a fallen man – so I may say.
He is just like you and I in daring quest.
Playing games with God in a circle of penance and vice.
Until the Saviour sought us and saved us – from ourselves.
By Ven. Olusegun Onafeso