NO TIME FOR COASTING

 

We must work the works of Him who sent me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work.  John 9:4

 

I begin every day praying the Lord’s prayer; first in English, then in Hebrew.  I find that when all is said and done, the Lord’s prayer is sufficient to start my day.  That shouldn’t come as a surprise, since when asked how to pray, Jesus taught His disciples that prayer.  I’ve prayed it so much that most every part of it makes my spirit tremble at the profound nature of the request.  I used to quote it by rote, now each phrase is a longing.

Time is short.  Even if I live to be ninety, time is short.  Today is not just another day but a day set apart in the kingdom for kingdom work.  July 29, 2009 will turn out to be a significant day in heaven’s calendar if I cooperate with God in my activities so that His kingdom comes to my world.  I want His will to be done here in this house, in my office, for heavenly manna to drop here for the challenges that I face.  I must work the works of Him who planned my birth.  It is daytime, the time of opportunity.

I won’t be deceived by the fact that today looks relatively free.  There are few appointments and it appears to be quiet.  Does that make me loosen my belt and coast?  It used to but not any more.

Jesus spoke these words to His disciples when they came upon the blind man.  It was the Sabbath.  He wanted them to know that He only had three years of public ministry and every day was critical.  No wonder He healed on the Sabbath Day!  He was redeeming the time.

Every conversation can be seasoned with grace.  Every touch, an extension of Jesus’ hands.  Every problem is an opportunity for the exercise of my faith.  I lift this day and all of its unknowns to the One who chose, on a holy day when all else rested, to touch a blind man’s eyes with mud.  The need was there, the time for His healing was ripe, God’s glory was to be revealed, and Jesus acted.

My eyes are sharp, my spirit ready, Your Word on my tongue.  Thy kingdom come here, please.  Use me.  Amen