The sky appeared dark but the temperature perfect. A small breeze came through the awning we stood under. My husband would hand one to each kid and then they took turns handing them out. Neither kid has a long attention span, so the enjoyment quickly fizzled. Soon, my son gave up and began running around. Shortly after, my daughter said, "I am done serving" and began on her way. Little drops of rain began falling and the kids decided running around in the raindrops was much more fun than handing out bulletins.
We continued on for a bit until we saw no one driving in the parking lot. We headed to our vehicle. Our service here was complete and we could now move forward.
"Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." (Galatians 6:8-10)
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." (Hebrews 12:1-3)
How often do we become like children with short attention spans? We begin a good work, serving God and walking in obedience; but, we grow weary. The surroundings or circumstances bring discomfort. We do not like this feeling so give up and turn another way. Our hearts say no more and search for a place of comfort. Our attention ventures in an opposite direction than what God commands us to do. Our eyes see something easier, more fun or fulfilling.
Jesus continued on the path His Father intended with great opposition. Venturing elsewhere may have been easier. Choosing another path or following the crowd would have avoided His physical pain and suffering. But, He would not have fulfilled His Father's plan. He endured the pain and shameful words, yet never complained or ran away. He continued until His work was complete.
So, handing out bulletins at church may be a bit of a stretch to prove this point, but you can take this thought and apply it to wherever you may be in your journey. No job that He asks is too small. Everything you do for Glory of God furthers His Kingdom. Any type of serving He asks of you, do so without growing weary. Continue to do good to all people and in all situations and He will pour blessings out on your life. Stretch your spiritual attention span to avoid following fleshly desires. Keeping your flesh happy will not fulfill your Father's plan. Though, flesh desires appear easier or more entertaining at the time; that quickly fizzles out and leaves you empty. Following God and continuing to do good always brings filled hearts and complete, unending joy. Focus on Him and the prize that lay ahead.
God, thank you for this day. Thank You for the opportunity to serve everywhere You lead. Keep my focus on You to remember that no work is too small. Whether I hand out bulletins, feed the homeless or speak to thousands; I am doing so in Your name. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and may my words be Your words. Use me to spread the Gospel. I am here to serve. I love You.
Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig
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