“Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him …” (Luke 18:40)
Is there room in your schedule for interruptions? Author Jon Walker writes: “Jesus stopped when people needed help. He saw interruptions as opportunities to show God’s love. Woe to those who are so busy saving the world that they ignore the perceived interruptions of those in need. Like the Good Samaritan, we should be ready to stop for someone who’s hurting. ‘Whoever … sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart … how does the love of God abide in him?’ (1 John 3:17). When Jesus acted out of love, people recognized ‘God … at work among them’ (Luke 7:16).”
Chuck Swindoll writes: “The One who said, ‘Be still, and know that I am God’ (Psalm 46:10) must hurt when He witnesses our frantic, compulsive, agitated motions. In place of a quiet, responsive spirit, we offer Him an inner washing machine — churning with anxiety … activity … resentment and impatience. But you can change. Here’s how. Admit it. Acknowledge that you’re too busy and something must be done — NOW. I did that recently, and through tears my family and I cleared some bridges the thorns had overgrown. Stop it. Starting today, refuse every activity that isn’t absolutely necessary. Sound ruthless? So is the clock. So is your health … Quit feeling so important! They’ll find somebody else to sit on the committee … or they’ll wise up and adopt a better plan. Maintain it. It is easy to start fast and fade quickly. Paul told the Galatians, ‘You were running … well. Who … held you back from following the truth? It certainly isn’t God … he is the one who called you to freedom’ (Galatians 5:7-8). Once you start gleaning the benefits from reordering your priorities … tell other ‘activity-addicts.’ They’d love to stop — if they only knew how.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to stop and focus to see what needs to be rearranged with what I keep myself busy — and see the things that are most important — someone in need, someone who wants someone to listen, to see you in nature around me … The list goes on. Help me Lord! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
