Noelle McDermott
Today’s Scripture: “Instead, be concerned above everything else with the Kingdom of God and with what he requires of you, and he will provide you with all these other things.” Matthew 6:33, GNT
Theme: No matter what talents you do or don’t have, making time with God a priority will help you to be a good and faithful servant.
GIFTED IN ADMINISTRATION
Progressing steadily through my first year in college, I consider myself to be a “productive person.” I submit assignments early and typically complete work projects before their deadlines. Administration might be one of my gifts. I have my calendar blocked out in various colors, and I used to think that this meant I used my time wisely. But I began noticing that, although my schoolwork was complete, sometimes I rushed through praying in my quiet time because I knew I had an early morning appointment. I didn’t always feel excited to serve because I had exhausted myself working earlier in the week. And more often than I want to admit, I would postpone coffee with a friend because other tasks felt more urgent. Some could say I was using my time effectively to complete schoolwork, but despite my satisfaction in getting work done, I felt something was missing.
BEFORE SUNRISE
The Gospels show just how talented and gifted —and busy—Jesus was. He was feeding and teaching crowds, healing the sick, and bringing sight to the blind. These miracles were beneficial and changed people’s lives. The Gospels also show that the responsibility of His ministry never prevented Jesus from connecting with the Father. Between healing an entire town and healing a leper, Jesus set aside time to spend time with God. Notice how early He woke up—before the sun rose! The Son of God prioritized praying to the Father. Despite His huge potential and many gifts, He spent time with God. What makes us think we can get by without abiding in His presence?
SETTING ASIDE TIME
Full disclosure, I still struggle. I don’t always want to faithfully spend time with God or my community because distractions often sweep away my focus. The cares of this world will eagerly creep onto our lives and our schedules, and we can easily be lulled into thinking we can stay strong in our faith without setting aside time for God. The temptation to focus on building our talents instead of our relationship with God will not help us to become good and faithful servants. We must set aside time in our schedules for quiet time, serving, and fellowship. It will often require sacrifice. The Lord has given us a new day each morning—let’s use it well.
Make It Personal: Take inventory of what you’ve been doing the past two weeks. Where have you been spending your time? Most of our obligations are important (working at our jobs, attending classes, taking care of our kids), but ask the Lord to identify one area in your schedule that you can instead dedicate to spending time in His presence, in serving, and/or in fellowship.
Pray: God, it is so easy to get caught up in my weekly routines or chasing some goal. You have provided me with talents and resources and filled me with purpose. I know that my job or my hobbies are not the only reason I need these resources. In a culture that fights so desperately for my attention, remind me how I should truly be spending my time and talents. Show me the goodness in Your design for relationships with both You and others. Thank you for the gifts and resources you have given me. Help me to bring them back to You. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Read: Mark 1:29-45; Luke 6:12-13