Be Intentional
Parenthood naturally creates abundant opportunities for guilt. Thoughts of, “I should have done this more,” or, “We shouldn’t have done that,” abound. One of my many regrets as a father is the way I sometimes played with my daughters when they were quite young. My regret is that I was often distracted. Did my three-year-old know that at the time? No. Her dad was involved with her and that is all she wanted. However, I know that my heart was not always engaged and I realize today that I am the one who missed out.
Ministry can be similar. It is possible to be doing something without being completely engaged. I am sure we can all think of an example. Have you ever prayed just because it was the right time to pray, even though your mind was somewhere else? Have you ever read the Bible just to read the Bible? One can be present in a worship service without actually worshiping. I recently heard a lesson about how we raise our families that impacted me. The gist was that it is possible, and easy, to raise our children in a Christian environment without actually making Christianity a priority.
How do we fix these problems? And just to clarify, these are problems. The solution, as always, is found in Jesus. However, it is not to be found in some of the solutions commonly proposed among Christians. It is easy to speak about “trusting Jesus to lead.” I understand the sentiment behind “waiting for Him to act in my life.” Rather, the solution is only realized by actually imitating Him.
Take a moment to read Matthew 9.35-38. It is easy to read this text as nothing more than a description of Jesus’ actions. However, I see much more. Why did His teaching, healing, and emphasis on the kingdom leave an impact? Because He honesty viewed them as sheep without a shepherd. His heart was moved by their current predicament. He was not “going through the motion”or simply doing His “duty.” Rather, His ministry was intentional. Notice His admonition to His disciples. He asked them to pray EARNESTLY. His disciples didn’t know these people. They could have followed His request by saying a quick prayer and moving on with their business. But Jesus expected more.
Our thought for today is very easy to remember. BE INTENTIONAL. In your prayers, be intentional. With your wife, husband, children, and friends, be intentional. With your worship, be intentional. In all of your service to God, be intentional. In other words, be like Jesus.