This May Hurt a Little
I once heard a young woman speak about her concerns for the future. Her theme was apathy, the state of being totally disconnected emotionally from the normal things of life. It is not a shade of sympathy, or a hue of empathy, it is the choice to be completely numb, to not care. She suggested this state was destroying the quality of life on planet earth. I know this is extreme, but the concept has been stuck in my head like a bad jingle. My thought is not that people are disconnected from feelings, but that they armchair quarterback the lives of those around them, giving voice to opinions and never lending a helping hand. Trust me, I’ve spent my time in the recliner. My father once sternly reminded me that God had not abdicated His Throne to leave the universe in my capable hands. Point noted dad, and so you have today’s post.
Many years ago my husband and I answered God’s call to ministry. There was a moment of great and overwhelming panic. Quickly God whispered, “I’m not asking you to save the world, that’s My job. Just follow me one step at a time and see what I can do.
Lessons had to be learned beyond Biblical studies, church history and theology. Crying Behind the Office Door, Chapter one was this: The world asks way more of you than God does. Chapter Two: God’s voice doesn’t sound like the loudest mommy in the room. When I was first pulled aside and given a list of things I needed to be doing and specific people I needed to evangelize I heard a voice screaming, “There aren’t enough hours in the day and caffeine in a diet coke for you to succeed. So give it up.” It wasn’t God talking, He is much more kind and forgiving.
Now, if you’re still with me:
Take a moment to imagine what your world, your town, your neighborhood, would look like in five years (or less) if every child therein had a regular encounter with God’s love. What if every church in your town partnered to create a pattern of uninterrupted programs where every unchurched youth was invited to remain in a Bible program, morning and evening, all summer break! What if people discovered church is the most wonderful place on earth. Respite, peace, joy…..these are things longed for and the Church, the Body of Christ, has them in bounteous supply.
Am I dreaming too big? Should I just become apathetic, give it up, put it away forever? If so, please don’t say, “Nothing is impossible with God” while relaxing in your spiritual Lazy Boy.
No one is asked to do everything, but everyone is asked to do something. Lip service just stirs the air, manpower changes things. One paid staff person cannot teach five Sunday School classes! You can remain on the sofa of life, but on that ‘Great Gettin’ Up Morning,’ God will hear none of your arguments, points of debate or opinions on what others should have done. There will be NO EXCUSES! You will account for what YOU did or didn’t do!
I once commented that the fruit drink I was offered tasted too sour. My friend handed me the pitcher and spoon and said, “We don’t take criticism or advise, only volunteers.” Great policy! There’s a Mission Field in Your Back Yard, and it’s white with harvest. Do something!
Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19
Hoping We’re Still Friends,
Gretchen
Yes. This. All of it. Sister,keep dreaming. God will continue to get His glory through you. Keep shining.
And you as well!!!! So proud of you and to stand beside you in the work of the Kingdom!