“I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them.”
– John 17:13
Have you ever thought of Jesus as having a sense of humor and being joyful? Yesterday, we shared the parable describing the invitations that were extended to a great feast, but many were too busy to attend. In the Book of Luke Chapter 14, Jesus humorously shares their excuses: “…The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.’ Another said, ‘I have just bought five yokes of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.’ Still, another said, ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’ “ In their culture, these types of excuses were unheard of so you can imagine the chuckles and even outright laughter as Jesus narrates this account! In a fun-loving way, Jesus emphasized that people are overwhelmed, super busy, and, frankly, don’t make time to be with the Lord. How many of us are like that at times? For many of us, “busy” suggests we are “important,” therefore, we don’t have time or make time for moments of joy. That’s not a judgment on any of us. The use of our time is a struggle that all of us have because, somehow, we learned in our modern world that being busy is a virtue. Yet we all have this deep desire for joy as a promise in the scripture. Friend, there is no substitute for true Christian joy. Joy is the sustainable strength that comes from lightheartedness and confidence in the strong name of Jesus Christ. It is the chain-breaking, burden-breaking, and burden-lifting power of God. It’s available to each of us right now! |
Prayer
Jesus, help me to let go of excuses for busyness. Show me how to become joyful and lighthearted.
Reflection
Have you thought of busyness as a virtue? In what ways do you desire to experience joy?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
This is an important reminder to take time with the Lord daily! And I’m doing so- we are reminded to take time with family and neighbors and not hurry through life! Thanks Bobby!