Writing today’s thought was hard work because of a host of disruptions. Nevertheless, unexpected and irritating nuisances ended up being important. My scheduled tasks were delayed, but the interruptions turned out to be the real business of the day.
This sort of thing happened to Jesus too. You may remember Jesus’ conversation with a rich young man. The Lord had been teaching the crowds, but the time came for Him to leave the house where He was staying to head for Jerusalem. An interruption came as Jesus ‘started on his way’. (Mark 10:17) . Luke tell us it was a ‘young synagogue ruler’ who eagerly approached the Lord, fell at His feet, addressed Him respectfully as ‘good teacher’, and then posed a question. Jesus could’ve said, ‘Sorry, not now, I’m busy and got to go.’ But He didn’t! Rather, He gave His time and attention and the interruption prompted some significant and challenging teaching for all those listening.
Maybe today I should remember that Jesus not only had time for interruptions, but he had time for everyone – not only the worthy, rich and powerful. It’s wonderful to know that Jesus is never too busy to hear the deep concerns of your heart. He can use you and me too, if we seek to imitate him despite our frustrations.
A prayer: All-knowing and compassionate Lord, speak today through the unexpected, as well as my plans. Amen.
Copyright Rev. Anthony D. Miles July 2006
