The peninsula juts out sharply from the mainland and is elevated high above the sea, with sharp rocks lining all sides of the peninsula as it pushes into the sea. Clearly one does not want to fall over any of the cliffs onto the rocks or into the sea. In order to provide the area’s children a place to play, the local populace had created a soccer field on the peninsula. However, the shouts of gleeful children were not forthcoming; instead of playing joyfully, they huddled in the center of the field, fearful of approaching the dangerous cliffs. There were no enthusiastic cheers of competition and victory….until…until the town enclosed the peninsula with a tall, strong fence. Safe from the fear of falling off the dangerous cliffs, the children played their games with enthusiasm and vibrancy. Now the children were able to fully realize the joy of playing their beloved soccer.

Man is also located on a peninsula, precariously wandering his way through the dangers of life. In order for man to fully enjoy his life, God has constructed a fence, which protects man from most of the dangers he will experience. This fence is The 10 Commandments and the church’s teachings, which guide him through life so he will not fall off the dangerous cliffs into the abyss of hell. This fence is not a series of rules and regulations meant to constrict man, but rather exists to enable man to enjoy life to the fullest in accordance with his nature and his destiny. He is free to roam the world with the same type of glee and enthusiasm as do the children playing soccer on their protected field. God’s fence is comforting and enabling; it allows man to realize his true potential with joy.

G.K. Chesterton summarized it the best when he commented, “”The truth is, of course, that the curtness of the Ten Commandments is an evidence, not of the gloom and narrowness of a religion, but, on the contrary, of its liberality and humanity. It is shorter to state the things forbidden than the things permitted: precisely because most things are permitted, and only a few things are forbidden.” Yes indeed, Only 10 Commandments! God’s tall, safe fence protecting and liberating man.