11 March, Thursday — Excuses or Excused

Thursday of the 3rd Week of Lent

Jer 7:23-28
Lk 11:14-23

“…and he who does not gather with me scatters.”   

At this point in my life, I feel like I am not gathering anyone and bringing them to the Lord.

I must say that I am sometimes torn between my two realities as a result of my choices. I have a full time job, which takes a minimum of 50 hours in a week. I am also pursuing a master’s degree on a part-time basis, which takes about the equal number of hours in a week.

My one world reality assures me that this is my investment time.

After I complete my studies, I will return to teaching at Sunday school and make teaching my full time vocation, so children can enjoy their education, which they spend a large part of their lives doing.

My second reality is that I am, in a sense, not bearing fruit right now. So when I hear verses of ‘service’, ‘bearing fruit’, I feel like I am left behind. And for this, I ask the Lord regularly that he directs my thoughts and path. Because sometimes I see moments of His joy in me which I can share to classmates, colleagues, other students and others I meet. Sometimes, I feel the hand of the Spirit upon me, reminding me when I am dealing with others, as I hear a voice asking, “How am I a witness in this situation?” Yet at times, I feel a sense of our Lord’s confidence urging me to speak up, act and feel confident, yet keeping His love at the centre.

These are the moments that I know it is not my efforts, but His that truly urges me to His will.

Brothers and sisters, if you are in active ministry, that’s really great. I urge you to ‘gather’ the members when the urge might be stronger to stay divided and be drowned out by the tasks.

If you are not serving in ministry, I urge that you take an honest look at yourself, so that you can see it through the eyes of Christ. Other duties may be empowering, like parenting, care giving, studying, etc. Just remember to bring God where you are at right now, because without Him, we cannot do anything.

God bless you as you continue to gather, not scatter.

(Today’s OXYGEN by Josephine Dionisappu)

Prayer:  Lord, lead us in your light.

Thanksgiving: Yes I thank you Lord, for reminding that I am fully and completely yours.