Under new management

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2 NIV

Whenever I see a sign that says “under new management” I assume that the business may have had a reputation for poor management or bad service. That is not always the case, but it is usually what I think of. My family would tell you that poor service is one of the things that bugs me the most, just give a darn sort of sums it up.

I meet with a group of men on a weekly basis. We have been at it for over 15 years. These guys know me well enough to see issues even if I am not willing to disclose them. Every area of my life has been impacted by five other men who have simply agreed to give a crap and to show up. Its not perfect, but it is pretty good.

Sometimes we make each other mad but we also make each other think. This past week we discussed how to decide if you should be involved in any activity, ministry or otherwise. I am at a rare spot for me. I see time as more limited. More specifically I see a limited amount of energy. I also see gaps that I would have filled with something in the past. I also feel some guilt for not being willing.

When I switched careers 15 years ago my wife made me promise to not say yes to anything new for a year. She knew I would have a tendency to say yes to things. It was one of the smartest things she ever told me. Over the years since then we have added some things. Most have involved us mutually deciding although some things just show up on the schedule.

So back to the conversation about whether or not I should be doing more. One of the guys asked me a question, “If you were hiring a manager for your life, would a good manager say yes?” I had never thought of it like that. If I look at Jesus as my “Manager” I need to consult with Him more often.

Christianity is not exactly efficient. He came as a baby in a period of time where people and news moved slowly. He wants us to reach the world one person at a time. He wants me to sit still so I can listen to Him more often. He could force His hand more often. He could make decisions and direct outcomes more specifically. He gives me free will and often watches me choose a path or activity that may not be the best or easiest path. He whispers at times when He could use thunder. He turns destinations into journeys. He turns outcomes into processes that do not always end or get easier. But He holds my hand and walks right beside me through a life He could not have made more beautiful, but He could have made easier.

God created periods of rest, even for Himself. Do I? Do you?

Why is it not easier for me to do just that? A lot was accomplished before I was born and will be after I am long gone.

Challenge: Let the world clamor on, listen to the small voice of a Savior who may just want to sit still with you.

Rick Claiborn