THE LONG GAME
Daphne Powell
Today’s Scripture: “The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work.” 1 Corinthians 3:8, NLT
Theme: Invest your treasure without worrying about what others are doing.
PLANTING
One summer as we were vacationing in Florida, we were leaving our hotel room when we saw a family trying to get into theirs. We overheard them saying their key was not working. We went out to lunch and when we came back, they were still outside. Although we went on inside, but after a few minutes, I said, “I need to see what I can do.” invited them in out of the heat, let them use the bathroom, had lunch [yes it was a long wait] but finally they got into their rooms.
The rest of that week, we were passing each other, smiling, and saying, “How are you?” On our last day, there was a card on our door. The family wrote such kind words, saying, “Just thinking about your kindness brings a smile.” I keep it as a reminder because every day, we should be challenging ourselves to bring a smile to someone else through our kindness. We don’t always have to yell, “I am a Jesus follower!” Sometimes, we can just show we are Jesus followers through our lives and actions. I love planting seeds and caring for others.
WATERING
I have served in the community for over seven years. I get to meet people, learn their names, and get to know their stories. In the community where I serve, they know that I am a Jesus follower. Many times, I have found myself praying with, sharing communion, comforting them, and listening to their hardships. Some of the kids don’t know Jesus yet, so planting seeds is important. Some of them know Him and are trying to navigate their walk with Him. As they get older and move away, I sometimes wonder how they are doing. But on so many occasions, when I am shopping or eating out, I will run into these now teenagers/young adults; they recognize me, and I recognize them. We share a smile, a small conversation, and a hug.
Make it Personal: It’s Sunday morning, the clock says 8:00 am, and I yell “Church! Time to get up get ready.” Everyone is moving slowly, pulling sheets up over their heads, and saying, “Another 30 minutes, please!” Do I show up to church alone? Yes. I need to show my teenage children the importance of gathering with believers, the meaning of worship, and the love I have for church and fellowship.
Pray: Dear Lord, please continue to fill our cups so we can pour into others. Help us to find joy in giving to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Read: Mark 9:41; Philemon 4:6
Weekly Memory Verse: “For it stands in Scripture: ‘Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.’” 1 Peter 2:6 (ESV)