I mentioned about a month ago that I am participating in a study of the Book of John through Bible Study Fellowship.  I also have the privilege of teaching fifth and sixth grade students while their Mom’s attend the study each week.  On Saturday mornings I meet with all the other leaders to train to teach and to discuss what we’ve learned through our studies the previous week.

This past week we studied John 6:1-21 which includes the feeding of the five thousand and Jesus walking on the water.  Chapter 6 starts by telling us that the Jewish Passover was about to take place in Jerusalem, however Jesus had stayed in Galilee with his disciples.  They had been so busy with so many people up to this point that they barely had time to eat.  Jesus was going to rest and spend some quality time with his disciples.  However, as he looked up (vs. 6) he saw the crowd coming. 

Here is one of the questions that I was given on this week’s lesson:

Question:  How do you respond to others whose presence requires a change in your plans?  Can you remember a specific instance that you can share with your group?

My answer {being totally honest here}:  I don’t like to have my plans changed.

Notice I did not answer the second part because I couldn’t think of anything specific.  Whether you know it or not, God has a sense of humor!  That very day I was given a situation that was a perfect example. 

Saturday had been a busy day and by dinner time I was very tired.  My husband and I were just getting ready to call in a take-out order when the phone rang.  It was a church friend who has been going through a rough time with a rebellious step-son (18 years old).  He’d run away with friends and ended up in California.  However, his “friends” had abandoned him with no money, ID or way to get home.  Our friend wanted Bob’s help in figuring out how to get him home.  My first reaction was a huff because I wanted dinner!  So as Bob proceeded to check the internet for bus fares, etc., I went to sit on the couch and it hit me—this is exactly what that question wanted me to consider.  I was placing my plans/physical needs before helping someone in crisis!  I actually shook my head and laughed out loud.  My lack of compassion and his lack of responsibility are musings for another day.

I share this story because as I think about those we serve here at Presbyterian Homes and Family Services I realize that many of your days are likely filled with “interruptions” and not being able to do what you planned to do.  The people we serve have needs that you are meeting….but maybe not in your timeframe or according to your “plans”. 

The next time the phone rings or you get that unexpected knock on the door consider what Jesus did.  He had compassion on both the spiritual needs and physical needs of the crowd (he went on to miraculously feed the multitude). 

Thank you Father for the opportunity we have to serve you in whatever capacity we find ourselves.  Give us the eyes to see the needs of others and the hearts to meet those needs as best we can.  For the times when we feel like we have no more to give, enable us to do Your work in Your way and in Your time.

Have a great day!

Melanie