WHEN WELL-MEANING PEOPLE INTERRUPT YOUR PLANS
Luke 8:40–50, 54–56
I remember asking a local teacher a few years ago how the school year was going. Teachers have always been my heroes, and I take every chance to support or encourage them whenever I can.
The teacher replied that everything was going well, but it would be perfect without the students. I found that somewhat funny for obvious reasons. Without students, there would be no need for her! You won’t get very far in any profession if you don’t have people to serve.
Have you ever noticed in the Scriptures that Jesus was never in a hurry or bothered by people? He knows something we all need to learn. Although people can seem like distractions, our most important ministry is to others! Without them, our work and ministry are pointless. Distractions are common for all of us, and most are quickly forgotten.
Then there are times when, as we go through our day and responsibilities, we realize that what we see as annoyances or detours can actually lead us back to where we need to be in the first place.
Seize the opportunities God gives you to serve Him by serving others. (40–42)
Each day offers a new chance to serve God yet many never recognize it. You must dismiss the idea that serving God is only important when done in a grand or celebrated way.
What creates the most meaningful and lasting impact are small, daily, consistent acts of service by a dedicated group of people. Your pastor is expected to serve and make a difference in his ministry. How about the rest of the church membership? The pastor can only do so much, but a church filled with opportunity seekers can change the world. Jairus requested that Jesus come to his house, and Jesus accepted the offer.
See interruptions as opportunities to serve. (43–48)
While Jesus was on His way to Jairus’ home, a woman suffering from a severe blood issue touched the hem of His garment, seeking a miracle. Sensing that His supernatural power had left Him, Jesus asked who had touched Him. Humbly, the woman admitted it was she. Noticing her faith, Christ blessed her and told her that her faith had made her well.
The deeper meaning is that on that day, the woman received both the physical healing she wanted and the spiritual healing she needed. If Jesus had not asked about her and allowed the brief exchange, the story would not be complete. Someone you know or will meet in your life needs you to be kind to them and not treat them as a bother.
Don’t let interruptions keep you from returning to your original assignment. (49–50, 54–56)
In case you have forgotten, we still need to reconcile the story of Jairus’ daughter. When Jesus arrived, someone told Him that the young girl had died, and it was too late for help. Jesus was not discouraged in His mission. The incident with the woman with the issue of blood was not a distraction. It was a detour that led to an even greater miracle. Jesus brought the girl back to life, and her story continues to resonate today for many reasons. Don’t let what you see as an inconvenience keep someone from encountering Christ. Take time today to look around and see through the eyes of Jesus.
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
