John 3:16-18
“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
A woman complained to a psychologist that very dear, old friends had a habit of giving Christmas gifts that were quite expensive and/or elaborate…and she and her husband could not afford to reciprocate. She asked the psychologist how to handle this…and the reply was – “Remember ‘The Little Drummer Boy’ who gave what he could. If your friends can afford to give more costly gifts...and they seem to want to do this – let them. Give what you can in return, and don’t worry about it.”
I thought about “The Little Drummer Boy”, a Christmas song composed in 1958 by Katherine K. Davis, Henry Onorati and Harry Simeone. In part, the words say “I have no gift to bring, pa rum pum pum pum…That's fit to give the King, pa rum pum pum pum”. No truer words were ever spoken. We can never give Jesus a gift that is anywhere NEAR the value of what He has given us…and He doesn’t care! Jesus is not interested in the monetary value or the magnitude of our gift.
God did not send His Only Son to earth in anticipation of what we might do for Him in return. All we have to do is give Him our heart and our commitment to always do our very best…to honor Jesus with our words, actions and service to others. If you remember the last verses of this song, the “Little Drummer Boy” asks Mary if she would like to hear him play his drum, and she nods her approval. The “Little Drummer Boy” plays his drum…and Jesus smiles at him.
Jesus smiles at us and takes great delight when we follow Him faithfully and give Him our very best. This is the only gift that He desires. What are you giving Him these days?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label serving God gladly and with a willing heart. Show all posts
Showing posts with label serving God gladly and with a willing heart. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for June 23, 2014
Philippians 3:13-14
No, dear brothers, I am still not all I should be, but I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God is calling us up to heaven because of what Christ Jesus did for us.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When I was in my twenties, I took up running as a form of exercise…and I competed in a few 5K and 10K races. Working toward the race gave me motivation and a goal. I had to train and prepare. I couldn’t just show up on Race Day and run 3.1 to 6.2 miles…I had to build up my stamina, endurance, and strength. So I would go on 3-to-6-mile runs every day to get my body (and my mind) ready for the actual event.
I’ll tell you, each day was different. Some “training days” were good…and others I’d just as soon forget! In fact, even within the run itself, I would tell myself, “Okay, you can’t think about the 4.5 miles you have already run and how tired you are…you have to focus on this last 1.5 miles and getting finished.” Honestly, there were lots of times that I wasn’t even all that concerned with how well I ran…I just wanted to be done! And for me, it wasn’t about the prize or medal on Race Day…it was about the personal satisfaction of knowing that I worked toward a goal and completed it. But there were indeed “prizes” and medals…and I did pick up a few - usually because in the early 1980s, there were so few women who ran competitively!
Most of us are working toward something…a high school diploma or college degree…a promotion at work…saving up enough money to buy a house or a car…finding the right partner and starting a family…saving for retirement…making it to the eligibility point for receiving Social Security and Medicare benefits…living to a certain age – or long enough to see our children or grandchildren grown…or getting to travel to a certain destination or experience things on a “bucket list”. Dreams and goals are important! They give our lives purpose…and the “prize” or reward we seek often motivates us to keep going.
I wonder…how motivated are we spiritually? Do we truly desire to be better today than we were yesterday? Do we really “press on toward the mark” and strive to do more for Jesus each day? Do we get bogged down in our past and use that as a crutch for failing to serve as faithfully or enthusiastically as we should? Are we as diligent in our efforts to be faithful Christian disciples as we are to save for a house or a car…or to achieve other personal goals? Do we work as hard for Jesus as we do for ourselves?
Is the “prize for which God is calling us up to Heaven” - the promise of Eternity in His presence - enough motivation for us to “bring all of our energies to bear” on what we do in this earthly lifetime? Shouldn’t it be? Are we giving all we can to the one who gave so much for us, so that we can rest with Him in Heaven someday? Or are we taking His “prize” for granted…and “resting on our laurels”?
How you answer these questions matters! Which “prizes” have caught your eye and garnered your attention? You will have plenty of time to rest when Jesus calls you “home” for good. What are you doing in the meantime?
©2014 Debbie Robus
No, dear brothers, I am still not all I should be, but I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God is calling us up to heaven because of what Christ Jesus did for us.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When I was in my twenties, I took up running as a form of exercise…and I competed in a few 5K and 10K races. Working toward the race gave me motivation and a goal. I had to train and prepare. I couldn’t just show up on Race Day and run 3.1 to 6.2 miles…I had to build up my stamina, endurance, and strength. So I would go on 3-to-6-mile runs every day to get my body (and my mind) ready for the actual event.
I’ll tell you, each day was different. Some “training days” were good…and others I’d just as soon forget! In fact, even within the run itself, I would tell myself, “Okay, you can’t think about the 4.5 miles you have already run and how tired you are…you have to focus on this last 1.5 miles and getting finished.” Honestly, there were lots of times that I wasn’t even all that concerned with how well I ran…I just wanted to be done! And for me, it wasn’t about the prize or medal on Race Day…it was about the personal satisfaction of knowing that I worked toward a goal and completed it. But there were indeed “prizes” and medals…and I did pick up a few - usually because in the early 1980s, there were so few women who ran competitively!
Most of us are working toward something…a high school diploma or college degree…a promotion at work…saving up enough money to buy a house or a car…finding the right partner and starting a family…saving for retirement…making it to the eligibility point for receiving Social Security and Medicare benefits…living to a certain age – or long enough to see our children or grandchildren grown…or getting to travel to a certain destination or experience things on a “bucket list”. Dreams and goals are important! They give our lives purpose…and the “prize” or reward we seek often motivates us to keep going.
I wonder…how motivated are we spiritually? Do we truly desire to be better today than we were yesterday? Do we really “press on toward the mark” and strive to do more for Jesus each day? Do we get bogged down in our past and use that as a crutch for failing to serve as faithfully or enthusiastically as we should? Are we as diligent in our efforts to be faithful Christian disciples as we are to save for a house or a car…or to achieve other personal goals? Do we work as hard for Jesus as we do for ourselves?
Is the “prize for which God is calling us up to Heaven” - the promise of Eternity in His presence - enough motivation for us to “bring all of our energies to bear” on what we do in this earthly lifetime? Shouldn’t it be? Are we giving all we can to the one who gave so much for us, so that we can rest with Him in Heaven someday? Or are we taking His “prize” for granted…and “resting on our laurels”?
How you answer these questions matters! Which “prizes” have caught your eye and garnered your attention? You will have plenty of time to rest when Jesus calls you “home” for good. What are you doing in the meantime?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 10, 2014
Colossians 3:22-25
Servants, do what you’re told by your earthly masters. And don’t just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God, confident that you’ll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you’re serving is Christ. The sullen servant who does shoddy work will be held responsible. Being a follower of Jesus doesn’t cover up bad work.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
On a recent episode of CBS’ Sunday Morning*, we were introduced to Gabe Sonnier, an elementary school principal in Port Barre, Louisiana. Sonnier appears to be one of the happiest men on the planet. In fact, the reporter said that Sonnier had “the most contagious smile in Cajun Country!” Sonnier said, “That smile just wants to break out…that’s just me!” What makes this story so remarkable is that Gabe Sonnier began his “career in education” 30 years at Port Barre Elementary School with a totally different office…the mop room.
Yes, Sonnier was once the school’s custodian! In 1985, the former principal, Westley Jones, told him, “I would rather see you grading papers than picking them up.” Sonnier took this to heart, and as the reporter told us, “When he wasn’t cleaning classrooms, he was studying in them.” Sonnier now has a Master’s Degree in education…and he even aspires to possibly become the school district’s superintendent someday. He says he thinks he would like that!
The “punctuation mark” to this story is that Gabe Sonnier still cleans his own office. He could easily order the new custodian to do it. But as the reporter noted…“You can take the janitor out of the mop room, but you can’t take the work ethic out of the janitor”…at least not in this case. And therein lies the lesson for all of us. When we are able to find the joy and satisfaction in something as seemingly menial or insignificant as cleaning a floor, we have turned a significant corner. More importantly, when we recognize that even cleaning our office can glorify God, we have discovered a valuable component of Christian discipleship. It’s not that cleaning is so important on its own…it’s about the spirit with which we do it.
So as I clean my house, I thank God that He has given me such a comfortable, beautiful place to live. I honor Him by keeping it neat and clean. When you clean your room – or your car – tell God how much you appreciate Him for providing you with a means of transportation…a safe ride and/or a roof over your head…and more. When you go to school and study, thank God that you are granted the means to learn and grow in wisdom…that He has given you the opportunity to develop and fulfill the potential He has placed within you. When you go to work, give God thanks for providing you with a job. Remember that many would give anything to have employment and a means to support themselves.
If you are retired, thank God for getting you to this point…and ask Him to show you how and where He wants you to serve and honor Him in this phase of your life. Is God calling you to be a good friend and neighbor…a servant in ministry of some sort…a prayer warrior…someone who encourages others with cards and phone calls…a mentor to young people??? Are you fully engaged in honoring God, showing your gratitude - and sharing this appreciativeness with others? Is it clearly evident that you will not be content with shoddy work…that you consider your “performance” in even the smallest task a reflection of your Discipleship and devotion to God?
Your smile may not be as prominent and continual as Gabe Sonnier’s. But we can all find a way to express our joy and gratitude as we perform every single task to the glory of God. We can encourage others and lift their spirits by demonstrating the blessings of doing good work and giving God our very best.
Gabe Sonnier summed up his life’s work with a sentence that he often offers to his students…“It’s not where you start…it’s how you finish.” What will be said of you? What does your daily “work ethic” show others about your faith? Are you content with shoddy work… or are you offering God your very best in every single task? Do others see an example of God’s blessings and glory in your efforts? Isn’t it time they did?
©2014 Debbie Robus
* http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/louisiana-principals-remarkable-success-story/
Servants, do what you’re told by your earthly masters. And don’t just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God, confident that you’ll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you’re serving is Christ. The sullen servant who does shoddy work will be held responsible. Being a follower of Jesus doesn’t cover up bad work.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
On a recent episode of CBS’ Sunday Morning*, we were introduced to Gabe Sonnier, an elementary school principal in Port Barre, Louisiana. Sonnier appears to be one of the happiest men on the planet. In fact, the reporter said that Sonnier had “the most contagious smile in Cajun Country!” Sonnier said, “That smile just wants to break out…that’s just me!” What makes this story so remarkable is that Gabe Sonnier began his “career in education” 30 years at Port Barre Elementary School with a totally different office…the mop room.
Yes, Sonnier was once the school’s custodian! In 1985, the former principal, Westley Jones, told him, “I would rather see you grading papers than picking them up.” Sonnier took this to heart, and as the reporter told us, “When he wasn’t cleaning classrooms, he was studying in them.” Sonnier now has a Master’s Degree in education…and he even aspires to possibly become the school district’s superintendent someday. He says he thinks he would like that!
The “punctuation mark” to this story is that Gabe Sonnier still cleans his own office. He could easily order the new custodian to do it. But as the reporter noted…“You can take the janitor out of the mop room, but you can’t take the work ethic out of the janitor”…at least not in this case. And therein lies the lesson for all of us. When we are able to find the joy and satisfaction in something as seemingly menial or insignificant as cleaning a floor, we have turned a significant corner. More importantly, when we recognize that even cleaning our office can glorify God, we have discovered a valuable component of Christian discipleship. It’s not that cleaning is so important on its own…it’s about the spirit with which we do it.
So as I clean my house, I thank God that He has given me such a comfortable, beautiful place to live. I honor Him by keeping it neat and clean. When you clean your room – or your car – tell God how much you appreciate Him for providing you with a means of transportation…a safe ride and/or a roof over your head…and more. When you go to school and study, thank God that you are granted the means to learn and grow in wisdom…that He has given you the opportunity to develop and fulfill the potential He has placed within you. When you go to work, give God thanks for providing you with a job. Remember that many would give anything to have employment and a means to support themselves.
If you are retired, thank God for getting you to this point…and ask Him to show you how and where He wants you to serve and honor Him in this phase of your life. Is God calling you to be a good friend and neighbor…a servant in ministry of some sort…a prayer warrior…someone who encourages others with cards and phone calls…a mentor to young people??? Are you fully engaged in honoring God, showing your gratitude - and sharing this appreciativeness with others? Is it clearly evident that you will not be content with shoddy work…that you consider your “performance” in even the smallest task a reflection of your Discipleship and devotion to God?
Your smile may not be as prominent and continual as Gabe Sonnier’s. But we can all find a way to express our joy and gratitude as we perform every single task to the glory of God. We can encourage others and lift their spirits by demonstrating the blessings of doing good work and giving God our very best.
Gabe Sonnier summed up his life’s work with a sentence that he often offers to his students…“It’s not where you start…it’s how you finish.” What will be said of you? What does your daily “work ethic” show others about your faith? Are you content with shoddy work… or are you offering God your very best in every single task? Do others see an example of God’s blessings and glory in your efforts? Isn’t it time they did?
©2014 Debbie Robus
* http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/louisiana-principals-remarkable-success-story/
Daily Devotional for October 12, 2013
Proverbs 6:6-11
You lazy fool, look at an ant. Watch it closely; let it teach you a thing or two. Nobody has to tell it what to do. All summer it stores up food; at harvest it stockpiles provisions. So how long are you going to laze around doing nothing? How long before you get out of bed? A nap here, a nap there, a day off here, a day off there, sit back, take it easy—do you know what comes next? Just this: You can look forward to a dirt-poor life, poverty your permanent houseguest!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
We awoke to a thunderstorm and a dreary, rainy Saturday morning… perfect for hanging out in your pajamas or “sweats” and lounging with an extra cup of coffee. And there is nothing wrong with taking an occasional “day off” and being lazy. The problem is that many of us have made this a habit – if not our daily routine. There is every possibility that we did not intend to become this way… but as this passage indicates, we let a nap here and a day off there turn into a regular routine. And soon, we were not even making the effort to appear active and engaged. Our room/apartment/house is a wreck… we haven’t done laundry or mowed the yard in a month or better… dishes are piled high in the sink and there is little food in the fridge – and what is there has ruined. We rummage through the drawers and closets to find something clean enough for school or work… and we hurry home to put on our pjs or “sweats” and crawl back onto the couch or into bed.
I know this sounds extreme, but I am afraid that a lot of people truly live this way! And if you don’t feel that you fit into this description, let me ask you about your life as a Christian disciple. How is your relationship with God? Are you talking to Him every day and seeking ways to honor Him? Are you actually doing anything to serve God… to exercise your “faith muscle” and grow in Christian wisdom and strength? Or are you counting on others to do the work… depending on them to pray for you and those around you…expecting them to do the volunteering, teach the classes, study the Bible, and reach out to others in Jesus’ name? Are you essentially snuggled under the covers in your pjs, taking it easy…and expecting God to continue to bless you?
Here’s the thing… #1) this is not how God operates. He didn’t call you to be a disciple of Christ so you could sit on your duff all day and take Him – and the gift of salvation and its promise of eternity in heaven – for granted; and #2) why would you want this kind of existence in the first place? Spending your life on the sidelines is not truly living! Not only are you missing out on the wonderful gifts that God wants to bestow upon you in this earthly lifetime while you are lazing around… you are forfeiting the amazing blessings that He wishes to share with you as you grow in His wisdom and learn more about His grace, mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love.
I don’t know where you fit in this picture. I certainly don’t know how or when you got where you are. But if you find yourself in some state of laziness… physically, mentally or spiritually, I encourage you to make the conscious decision to change. Ask God to show you how to do this. Let Him guide you as you “get off the couch” and get going again. You will be amazed at how much better you feel… and you will be truly astounded at what awaits you as you develop new habits. You can still spend an occasional Saturday morning on the couch in your pjs… but I’m betting you’ll find far more exciting things to fill most of your time. With God’s help… I’m quite sure of it! Are you ready to get up and get going?
©2013 Debbie Robus
You lazy fool, look at an ant. Watch it closely; let it teach you a thing or two. Nobody has to tell it what to do. All summer it stores up food; at harvest it stockpiles provisions. So how long are you going to laze around doing nothing? How long before you get out of bed? A nap here, a nap there, a day off here, a day off there, sit back, take it easy—do you know what comes next? Just this: You can look forward to a dirt-poor life, poverty your permanent houseguest!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
We awoke to a thunderstorm and a dreary, rainy Saturday morning… perfect for hanging out in your pajamas or “sweats” and lounging with an extra cup of coffee. And there is nothing wrong with taking an occasional “day off” and being lazy. The problem is that many of us have made this a habit – if not our daily routine. There is every possibility that we did not intend to become this way… but as this passage indicates, we let a nap here and a day off there turn into a regular routine. And soon, we were not even making the effort to appear active and engaged. Our room/apartment/house is a wreck… we haven’t done laundry or mowed the yard in a month or better… dishes are piled high in the sink and there is little food in the fridge – and what is there has ruined. We rummage through the drawers and closets to find something clean enough for school or work… and we hurry home to put on our pjs or “sweats” and crawl back onto the couch or into bed.
I know this sounds extreme, but I am afraid that a lot of people truly live this way! And if you don’t feel that you fit into this description, let me ask you about your life as a Christian disciple. How is your relationship with God? Are you talking to Him every day and seeking ways to honor Him? Are you actually doing anything to serve God… to exercise your “faith muscle” and grow in Christian wisdom and strength? Or are you counting on others to do the work… depending on them to pray for you and those around you…expecting them to do the volunteering, teach the classes, study the Bible, and reach out to others in Jesus’ name? Are you essentially snuggled under the covers in your pjs, taking it easy…and expecting God to continue to bless you?
Here’s the thing… #1) this is not how God operates. He didn’t call you to be a disciple of Christ so you could sit on your duff all day and take Him – and the gift of salvation and its promise of eternity in heaven – for granted; and #2) why would you want this kind of existence in the first place? Spending your life on the sidelines is not truly living! Not only are you missing out on the wonderful gifts that God wants to bestow upon you in this earthly lifetime while you are lazing around… you are forfeiting the amazing blessings that He wishes to share with you as you grow in His wisdom and learn more about His grace, mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love.
I don’t know where you fit in this picture. I certainly don’t know how or when you got where you are. But if you find yourself in some state of laziness… physically, mentally or spiritually, I encourage you to make the conscious decision to change. Ask God to show you how to do this. Let Him guide you as you “get off the couch” and get going again. You will be amazed at how much better you feel… and you will be truly astounded at what awaits you as you develop new habits. You can still spend an occasional Saturday morning on the couch in your pjs… but I’m betting you’ll find far more exciting things to fill most of your time. With God’s help… I’m quite sure of it! Are you ready to get up and get going?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 26, 2013
May 26 ~ Matthew 25:41-43
“Then he will turn to the ‘goats,’ the ones on his left, and say, ‘Get out, worthless goats! You’re good for nothing but the fires of hell. And why? Because—
I was hungry and you gave me no meal,
I was thirsty and you gave me no drink,
I was homeless and you gave me no bed,
I was shivering and you gave me no clothes,
Sick and in prison, and you never visited.’
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Last week, for the first time since my grandmother’s death more than a couple of months ago, I returned to the assisted living facility where she had resided. I visit with several residents and staff members there… many who have been lifelong dear friends. One man told me, “You missed my birthday! I’ve gotten a year older since you were here last.” He celebrated 95 years on May 18th, and clearly, it was important to him that we acknowledge this milestone . Another man, whom I only know as an acquaintance, told me that his wife passed away eleven days after my grandmother died. I had no idea that this had happened, and I spent a few minutes offering my condolences to him - and remembering her. Still others were eager to hug me and tell me how much they miss my grandmother – and how glad they were to see me. I promised to visit again… and I will.
There was a time in my life where I made giant “to-do” lists. I spent hours/days/weeks/months trying to accomplish everything on the lists. I set schedules and mental deadlines… and when things didn’t happen as they should, I beat myself up pretty badly over it all. If only I were more organized… more focused. Could I sleep less… or skip over something that was less significant? Many days, I hurriedly moved from one task to the next… eager to mark things off the list – and often more concerned with this than the quality of my work!
It took a long time, but I finally realized that a lot of the things on my list were never all that important in the first place… except in my own mind. Just because I say I’m going to clean the house on Tuesday doesn’t mean I can’t postpone these tasks in favor of a day trip with my husband – or a trip to the park with Timothy, Zola and Nathan. It won’t be the end of the world if someone drops by and my house is not spotless! When I get sick or someone needs my help and I don’t find time to write this daily devotional, the world will not fall apart!
If I never get all of my photos organized, closets cleaned, and all of those old greeting cards recycled into new ones, life will continue. The fabrics calling to me from my “stash” may or may not become cute outfits for my little ones… but they will not go naked. Thanks to restaurants and “take-out,” we will not go hungry if meals aren’t prepared… and there is nothing wrong with an occasional bowl of cereal for dinner!
On the other hand, these little ones won’t be little forever. The opportunities to nurture and mold them - and teach them about the love, grace, mercy and tender care of Jesus - will wane as they grow…and outgrow us in the process! The opportunities to visit elderly friends and loved ones will not last. The tray of cookies or a hot casserole we deliver to a family going through a crisis will have a far bigger impact than missing a hot meal on our own table for one night. Skipping an afternoon on the couch channel surfing in favor of a visit to someone who is house-bound – or in the hospital or in jail – will be far more impactful in the long run. Working at the local soup kitchen or volunteering for a church or community event will mean more than getting your car washed, that shopping trip you were anticipating, or hanging out at the lake with your friends. Taking time to write a note of encouragement – or thanks – or to drop someone an e-mail just to let them know you love them is more important than spending a half hour playing Angry Birds, Words with Friends, or Farmville!
Don’t misunderstand me… keeping things in order – keeping your homes, yard and vehicles clean…spending time with friends and family members… and even resting… are all important. It’s great to have hobbies and goals. But too many of us have become slaves to our schedules… and in doing so, we have become like “worthless goats” rather than Disciples who please God with our service and witness. We have placed our focus on things that are short-term. We are impatient. We cannot see the bigger picture and how what we are doing now relates to God’s overall plan.
When I was visiting with the man at my grandmother’s facility who was recently widowed, he shared a compelling analogy with me. He said someone had told him that God’s love and plans for us can be compared to a father and son who are standing behind a fence watching a parade. The father is tall enough to look over the fence and see the entire parade, from beginning to end. The son can only peer through a knothole in the fence. He only sees what advances in front of him. He cannot see the entire length of the parade until it passes before him. This is a great description of our life in Christ. He sees the entire parade… we only see the limited view from our “knothole.” And often, we grow impatient… weary… bored and/or disgruntled… and too often, we move away and focus on our own personal agendas.
The time has come to stand still and wait for the entire parade. We must re-evaluate our priorities and our “to-do” lists. We need to spend time in prayer and meditation and ask God, “Is this really where you want me to expend my efforts and energy?” When God presents us with an unexpected task or opportunity, we need to be prepared to say, “Sign me up! I’m ready!” - knowing that His plan will be far superior to our own.
In most instances, God’s “parade” looks altogether different than ours… but His is so much better! If we follow God’s “parade,” He will grant us plenty of time for many of the things that we want to do. If we are patient – and obedient – He will grant us plenty of opportunities for the things we feel are significant – and fun. Won’t you ask Him to show you where you need to rearrange your priorities and your “lists”? Are you ready to exchange your “worthless goat” agenda for the blessings and joy that come from His approval? Will this be the day that you start to trust God for the “whole parade”… or will you continue to live with a “knothole” view?
©2013 Debbie Robus
“Then he will turn to the ‘goats,’ the ones on his left, and say, ‘Get out, worthless goats! You’re good for nothing but the fires of hell. And why? Because—
I was hungry and you gave me no meal,
I was thirsty and you gave me no drink,
I was homeless and you gave me no bed,
I was shivering and you gave me no clothes,
Sick and in prison, and you never visited.’
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Last week, for the first time since my grandmother’s death more than a couple of months ago, I returned to the assisted living facility where she had resided. I visit with several residents and staff members there… many who have been lifelong dear friends. One man told me, “You missed my birthday! I’ve gotten a year older since you were here last.” He celebrated 95 years on May 18th, and clearly, it was important to him that we acknowledge this milestone . Another man, whom I only know as an acquaintance, told me that his wife passed away eleven days after my grandmother died. I had no idea that this had happened, and I spent a few minutes offering my condolences to him - and remembering her. Still others were eager to hug me and tell me how much they miss my grandmother – and how glad they were to see me. I promised to visit again… and I will.
There was a time in my life where I made giant “to-do” lists. I spent hours/days/weeks/months trying to accomplish everything on the lists. I set schedules and mental deadlines… and when things didn’t happen as they should, I beat myself up pretty badly over it all. If only I were more organized… more focused. Could I sleep less… or skip over something that was less significant? Many days, I hurriedly moved from one task to the next… eager to mark things off the list – and often more concerned with this than the quality of my work!
It took a long time, but I finally realized that a lot of the things on my list were never all that important in the first place… except in my own mind. Just because I say I’m going to clean the house on Tuesday doesn’t mean I can’t postpone these tasks in favor of a day trip with my husband – or a trip to the park with Timothy, Zola and Nathan. It won’t be the end of the world if someone drops by and my house is not spotless! When I get sick or someone needs my help and I don’t find time to write this daily devotional, the world will not fall apart!
If I never get all of my photos organized, closets cleaned, and all of those old greeting cards recycled into new ones, life will continue. The fabrics calling to me from my “stash” may or may not become cute outfits for my little ones… but they will not go naked. Thanks to restaurants and “take-out,” we will not go hungry if meals aren’t prepared… and there is nothing wrong with an occasional bowl of cereal for dinner!
On the other hand, these little ones won’t be little forever. The opportunities to nurture and mold them - and teach them about the love, grace, mercy and tender care of Jesus - will wane as they grow…and outgrow us in the process! The opportunities to visit elderly friends and loved ones will not last. The tray of cookies or a hot casserole we deliver to a family going through a crisis will have a far bigger impact than missing a hot meal on our own table for one night. Skipping an afternoon on the couch channel surfing in favor of a visit to someone who is house-bound – or in the hospital or in jail – will be far more impactful in the long run. Working at the local soup kitchen or volunteering for a church or community event will mean more than getting your car washed, that shopping trip you were anticipating, or hanging out at the lake with your friends. Taking time to write a note of encouragement – or thanks – or to drop someone an e-mail just to let them know you love them is more important than spending a half hour playing Angry Birds, Words with Friends, or Farmville!
Don’t misunderstand me… keeping things in order – keeping your homes, yard and vehicles clean…spending time with friends and family members… and even resting… are all important. It’s great to have hobbies and goals. But too many of us have become slaves to our schedules… and in doing so, we have become like “worthless goats” rather than Disciples who please God with our service and witness. We have placed our focus on things that are short-term. We are impatient. We cannot see the bigger picture and how what we are doing now relates to God’s overall plan.
When I was visiting with the man at my grandmother’s facility who was recently widowed, he shared a compelling analogy with me. He said someone had told him that God’s love and plans for us can be compared to a father and son who are standing behind a fence watching a parade. The father is tall enough to look over the fence and see the entire parade, from beginning to end. The son can only peer through a knothole in the fence. He only sees what advances in front of him. He cannot see the entire length of the parade until it passes before him. This is a great description of our life in Christ. He sees the entire parade… we only see the limited view from our “knothole.” And often, we grow impatient… weary… bored and/or disgruntled… and too often, we move away and focus on our own personal agendas.
The time has come to stand still and wait for the entire parade. We must re-evaluate our priorities and our “to-do” lists. We need to spend time in prayer and meditation and ask God, “Is this really where you want me to expend my efforts and energy?” When God presents us with an unexpected task or opportunity, we need to be prepared to say, “Sign me up! I’m ready!” - knowing that His plan will be far superior to our own.
In most instances, God’s “parade” looks altogether different than ours… but His is so much better! If we follow God’s “parade,” He will grant us plenty of time for many of the things that we want to do. If we are patient – and obedient – He will grant us plenty of opportunities for the things we feel are significant – and fun. Won’t you ask Him to show you where you need to rearrange your priorities and your “lists”? Are you ready to exchange your “worthless goat” agenda for the blessings and joy that come from His approval? Will this be the day that you start to trust God for the “whole parade”… or will you continue to live with a “knothole” view?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 24, 2013
Luke 14:18-20
But they all began making excuses. One said, ‘I have just bought a field and must inspect it. Please excuse me.’ Another said, ‘I have just bought five pairs of oxen, and I want to try them out. Please excuse me.’ Another said, ‘I now have a wife, so I can’t come.’
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Every single day, we make countless excuses. You may not even realize that you are doing this, but stop and think about your day. One of the first I recall making today was to my mom. We were talking on the phone, and I saw the mail lady bring a package to my door, so I said, “I need to hang up now… someone is at my door.” I told my nephews and niece that I could not stay and visit with them this afternoon, because I had to go to Wal-Mart and shop. I even told one of my cats that I couldn’t feed her… because it wasn’t time for her dinner yet! All of these excuses were legitimate. But we make so many that are not. Rather than be honest – for whatever reason – we make up what we hope is a plausible explanation and hope that the other guy will say, “That’s okay,” or “I understand.”
The problem is that we can easily get into a bad habit of making excuses, and pretty soon, we have an answer for everything! We especially do this with God. We can’t always excuse our way out of work, school, obligations to family and friends… but we are pretty sure we can get God to let us off the hook. He’ll always love us… right? We’re too busy to serve Him. Our “free time” is too precious to spend in worship or doing mission work. We are not talented, smart enough, or physically able to do the things that are asked of us. God will sympathize… won’t He?
The short answer is, “No! He will not!” Understand this… God will always love us – but He will not accept our excuses. If you expand your examination of Luke 14, you will see that Jesus clearly tells us that there is a cost for being a Christian… and for some, this price can seem quite high. In order to fully follow Jesus Christ, some people will have to give up relationships with family members and friends. Some will have to change jobs, kick old habits, and modify a lot of attitudes. There will be Christians who risk their very lives in order to proclaim their discipleship.
Christians were never promised an easy or comfortable life. And this is where so many of us get it wrong. We expect life in Christ to be a cake walk… freely He gives us salvation, and “freely” we plan to take! So when things get awkward, difficult, embarrassing, or unpleasant… when we are called to step out of the box and put our needs on the shelf, the excuses start to flow like a bubbling stream. This doesn’t make us bad people… but it does speak to our level of commitment. Too many of us want to be “a little bit Christian” – the part that gets us into heaven without having to make any sacrifices or step outside our comfort zone.
The time has come for us to stop playing around and making excuses. It is time for us to get serious about our commitment to Christ… to literally take a “leap of faith” and go full in for Jesus. Where will this leave you? Will you have a new spouse, a crop to inspect, or pets and livestock to tend? Or will you be ready to drop what you are doing and go wherever – and whenever – God calls you? The choice is totally ours…how will you decide?
©2013 Debbie Robus
But they all began making excuses. One said, ‘I have just bought a field and must inspect it. Please excuse me.’ Another said, ‘I have just bought five pairs of oxen, and I want to try them out. Please excuse me.’ Another said, ‘I now have a wife, so I can’t come.’
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Every single day, we make countless excuses. You may not even realize that you are doing this, but stop and think about your day. One of the first I recall making today was to my mom. We were talking on the phone, and I saw the mail lady bring a package to my door, so I said, “I need to hang up now… someone is at my door.” I told my nephews and niece that I could not stay and visit with them this afternoon, because I had to go to Wal-Mart and shop. I even told one of my cats that I couldn’t feed her… because it wasn’t time for her dinner yet! All of these excuses were legitimate. But we make so many that are not. Rather than be honest – for whatever reason – we make up what we hope is a plausible explanation and hope that the other guy will say, “That’s okay,” or “I understand.”
The problem is that we can easily get into a bad habit of making excuses, and pretty soon, we have an answer for everything! We especially do this with God. We can’t always excuse our way out of work, school, obligations to family and friends… but we are pretty sure we can get God to let us off the hook. He’ll always love us… right? We’re too busy to serve Him. Our “free time” is too precious to spend in worship or doing mission work. We are not talented, smart enough, or physically able to do the things that are asked of us. God will sympathize… won’t He?
The short answer is, “No! He will not!” Understand this… God will always love us – but He will not accept our excuses. If you expand your examination of Luke 14, you will see that Jesus clearly tells us that there is a cost for being a Christian… and for some, this price can seem quite high. In order to fully follow Jesus Christ, some people will have to give up relationships with family members and friends. Some will have to change jobs, kick old habits, and modify a lot of attitudes. There will be Christians who risk their very lives in order to proclaim their discipleship.
Christians were never promised an easy or comfortable life. And this is where so many of us get it wrong. We expect life in Christ to be a cake walk… freely He gives us salvation, and “freely” we plan to take! So when things get awkward, difficult, embarrassing, or unpleasant… when we are called to step out of the box and put our needs on the shelf, the excuses start to flow like a bubbling stream. This doesn’t make us bad people… but it does speak to our level of commitment. Too many of us want to be “a little bit Christian” – the part that gets us into heaven without having to make any sacrifices or step outside our comfort zone.
The time has come for us to stop playing around and making excuses. It is time for us to get serious about our commitment to Christ… to literally take a “leap of faith” and go full in for Jesus. Where will this leave you? Will you have a new spouse, a crop to inspect, or pets and livestock to tend? Or will you be ready to drop what you are doing and go wherever – and whenever – God calls you? The choice is totally ours…how will you decide?
©2013 Debbie Robus
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