Today we read from John 9:1-41 in the One Year Bible. Jesus tells His disciples that they have to do what God sent them to do "quickly." And that can be a little puzzling.
Here's why: we have all heard the wise saying, "He who hesitates is lost." But we also know that it's important to "look before you leap." So which is it? Act quickly, or take a moment to think about it?
Adding more complexity is that Jesus told Judas, "What you must do, do quickly." Which seems to be a dark echo of what He tells the disciples in today's verse.
So what's the answer? Well, as with most things, the answer lies in the balance. Not either extreme, but in taking both into consideration and making a good decision. Yes, it's important to think before you act. In fact, any time someone is trying to sell you something or get you to do something, and you have to do it "RIGHT NOW" in the next few minutes, 99 times out of 100 it's better if you don't. They try to use that pressure to get you to do something you would be wise enough NOT to do if you think about it.
On the other hand, we only have so many breaths in this life. There are only so many opportunities to tell people you love them. There is only so many chances we have to help the poor. If we're going to make a difference in this life, the time is now. In situations like this, where the choice is clear: act without delay. Do the good thing. Help those in need. Encourage the downhearted.
What He has SENT us to do... do quickly. Don't put it off. Today is the day.
God, thanks for giving us a mission. Help us do it without delay.
No comments:
Post a Comment