I don't like what I do

The words of the person trying to scam me out of money were honest. They were very hypocritical, but they were honest. I had called out this individual for trying to scam me for the second time in just over a year. Many people have already questioned his authenticity, and said there is no excuse and that they don't want to hear his "sob story". But I believe him.

Last year, my wife and I fell for the scam. They pose as sheriffs and tell you that you didn't show up to court. That someone had signed your name (at your address that they have) that you'd be in court, and now there is a citation you have to pay. If you don't, there will be a warrant out for your arrest. This time, I was ready. I played the game of calling him back and leaving a voicemail. I waited. Finally he calls from a "no caller ID" number, and the fun began. While we don't think it was the exact same individual as last year, the same ruse came through the phone. I let him go for about 10 minutes, acting concerned. When he uttered the words "you can pay with crypto" I was 100% certain it was the same scam. I was already 99% sure, I just didn't want to risk confronting an actual officer. 

So I stopped the games and asked him the question. "Why do you do this to people?" A lot of people have complimented me on what happened next. First of all, I really think God took over, especially in my prayer. Second, I'll admit was kind of ready for a fight if he continued acting or got aggressive. But I honestly thought he would just hang up. 

Instead, he became human so instantly. 

He didn't have to stay on the phone, but he came clean without a fight. He talked about his brokenness AND didn't ask for money because I felt sorry for him. He seemed contrite when confronted about having to stand before God one day. It makes me think of Luke 18:

¹³ But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ ¹⁴ I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

Those are the words of Jesus. Tax collectors were traitors, and thieves. And interestingly enough, that passage didn't mention the tax collector stopped forever. And as the tax collector admitted his sin, so did this scammer. 

Don't let me paint that too broadly though. I'm saying I think the scammer was authentic, and that he seems to feel some conviction in his heart. But he SHOULD stop immediately. He's in sin, no matter what his backstory is. And I hope he falls flat on his face every time he tries the scam. At the same time, God let me feel his pain. 

Life is sure messy, which is a great reminder to remember that every soul has a story. Justice needs to be served with individuals like "Mike", but it doesn't mean we can't serve compassion with it. 

PS: He texted me immediately after the call. And below, more on how this scam works to protect yourself and loved ones!

A Deep Dive into This Scam