But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you. (1 Samuel 12:24)
Excuses and rationalization are easy tools that Satan uses to take me away from God’s service. Laziness is a good one too, or to substitute one of my favorite words: sloth. (I think of the word sloth as being a combination of “slob” and “worthless”.) As this new autumn approaches, I find myself fighting an old adversary like a five-toed sloth. Here are some personal examples of my excuses and rationalization:
1. “I don’t think I can go to the APLC 50th anniversary on the 22nd. I’m coming back from Paris the day before and I’m sure I’ll be wiped out. Besides, I have to get ready for work the next day.”
• Yes, but what does God want me to do? You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. (Galatians 5:13)
2. “I’m not sure I can make it to Pastor Tracie’s installation on the 29th. The Eagles are playing the Broncos that day and I have that birthday party with the ex-in-laws the night before…and you know how long those parties go!”
• Yes, but what does God want me to do? It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him. (Deuteronomy 13:4)
3. “I don’t know. Should I continue in choir? I seem to have lost my zeal.”
• Yes, but what does God want me to do? Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. (Romans 12:11)
4. “My kids are all grown up and my wife is gone. What’s the point? Maybe I can serve God in my own quiet way on Sunday mornings by gently kayaking on peaceful waters around the Delaware Valley. I certainly wouldn’t be disturbing anyone”.
• Yes, but what does God want me to do? Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me. (John 12:26)
5. “I went to that wine festival yesterday and now I think I have the sniffles. I think I better stay in bed a couple more hours. Besides, I don’t have anything to pray for.”
• Yes, but what does God want me to do? And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts. If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever. (1 Chronicles 28:9)
Dear Heavenly Father,
I know what you want me to do: If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:11)
Contributed by Donald
Monday September 9, 2013
Liturgical Year C: Week 41
Liturgical Color: Green
Sunday Gospel reading: Proper 18
Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost