Joy in Obedience
I almost missed an amazing opportunity for joy last week.
As can be my way when obedience seems hard, or inconvenient, I tend to pull a Jonah and head on my way to a Ninevah of my own making. (I’m not proud of that fact- just keepin’ it real!)
For several weeks, my church had been planning for a summer Vacation Bible School and advertising the need for volunteers. Before I even had time to process it, I dismissed it.
But then, each morning on my quiet ride to work, I heard that small, still voice… “Call and volunteer.”
I created several excuses not to…
“I’ve done VBS for years. It’s someone else’s turn.”
“Every night, Lord? That’s too much. I’m tired after working all day.”
“I’m too old to do ‘camp’ again.”
“There’s others that are qualified to help. Let them step up.”
Finally, two weeks into this daily scenario I gave in and texted the Coordinator and offered to assist. As soon as I hit send, I felt this excitement come over me. There’s no doubt in my mind God honors our obedience!
By saying yes, these are the joys I experienced last week:
Serving in community with people of all ages (from teens to their 70s!)
The reminder of God’s strength to sustain
Children singing praises to Creator God
A little one asking deep theological questions that reminded me of Christ’s love
Watching my grandson grow in His faith walk
Using my talents to lead our team in worship through song
Seeing teens caring, loving and leading children in fun
Talking with thankful parents
Being encouraged by the generosity of families in donating to our mission project
Falling into bed tired, but knowing that I had been obedient to a loving Father who was allowing me to see His grace and mercy at work
It’s easy for me as an introvert who fights against depression to forget that I’m created for community. Sometimes, that even becomes an excuse to avoid others.
We are called to live our lives with and for others.
Romans 12:4-5 (NIV)For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
Could VBS have run without me last week? Yes- no doubt in my mind. Would I have missed an amazing blessing God wanted to speak into my life- Absolutely!
I’m convinced that when God asks us to use our abilities and gifts to serve Him and others, He wants more than just our particular skill set-He needs and wants us.
Last week I was reminded that obedience and serving alongside others can bring with it a great joy.
Joyfully,
Lorinda
For Reflection:
Where is God calling you to walk in obedience?
Are you going to “pull a Jonah” or say, “Yes, Lord?”
