June 10, 2011
Romans 1:14 I have a duty to all people—Greeks and those who are not Greeks, the wise and the foolish. (NCV)Romans 1:14 Everyone I meet—it matters little whether they're mannered or rude, smart or simple—deepens my sense of interdependence and obligation. (The Message)
Sitting in an airplane’s middle seat is like going to the dentist: I prefer not to do it. Flying unnerves me, but sitting next to a talking Tom or chatty Cathy in an airplane takes me over the edge. But it shouldn’t because I am a minister of the word of Jesus Christ. In the Scripture, Paul talks about how he had a sense of obligation to all people to preach the Good News. I have that same mission.
On the outbound flight out, I was assigned an aisle seat and the person in that middle seat had no interest in talking to me. I had no interest in talking to him either. I don’t even recall if we greeted each other. On the return flight, the middle seat was empty. I considered it a favor from God, but it really was an opportunity that I chose not to take. I ignored the passenger and she ignored me.
I'm making no excuses for myself because I enjoy talking about Christ – and I am a communicator by profession. Sure, I’m concerned about my mom’s health, the busy week, the idea of flying, etc., but those are only excuses for the fact that I failed to share God’s love with those around me. I can thank God for his favor and unmerited grace. He knows I’m a work in progress and loves me unconditionally - as any parent loves a child.
I’m writing this to encourage you to not go with your feelings, emotions, etc. Share the love of Christ. Share the hope that Christ gives us. We have a duty to the Lord, we are his workers! See Philippians 2:12. You can only do this when you stay connected to the Lord.
Next time I will take that middle seat.
Comments
Post a Comment