Sunday, November 15, 2009

Blessed Interruption

"What must I do to be saved". Acts 16: 30b

It was very early in the morning. My husband had just left for work and I was sitting on the bed, Bible open before me, journal resting on my lap, pen in my hand.

Suddenly the scamper of little feet drew my attention away from the peaceful shroud of silence. I must admit to momentary feelings of frustration as I realized my coveted time in His presence was about to end. Looking towards our bedroom door, the sweetest, little cherub appeared and entered our room. At three years of age it was still a challenge to crawl up on our big bed, but he managed it without too much difficulty, as one accustomed to this daily routine.

Before I could even say 'Good morning' or draw him into my arms for a cuddle and embrace, he looked up at me quite seriously and asked, "Mommy, how do I ask Jesus into my heart?"

So many thoughts instantly and simultaneously invaded my mind. 'Where did that come from?' 'Did he have a dream that provoked this question?' 'Was there a Sunday School lesson that had preceded his inquiry?' 'Oh my goodness Lord, he wants to ask You into his heart. He's only three years old'. 'Father, help me explain salvation in a way he can understand'.

With God guiding me, and my precious little boy beside me, we bowed our heads and prayed a simple prayer of confession and invitation. I will never forget that moment.

That was just over fourteen years ago. He was 'Christopher' then, but he's 'Chris' now. His spiritual birthday is a highlight each year, complete with a special dinner, birthday cake and a small gift of remembrance. Sincerely the scripture is true - there is no greater joy than to know that our children walk with God.

As the verse above has caused me to ponder those memories today, my thoughts are captured with several wonders.

I wonder...what if I had asked my son to come back later, after I finished my 'quiet time'. Would his desire have waned? Would I have missed that priceless opportunity of witnessing God tugging at a child's heart? What if I had sent him away, not wanting to be interrupted? How often in our quest for holiness do we miss the holy?

Christ's life was not without interruption. On many occasions He was detained or presumed upon by those who were unafraid to approach Him. Those with whom His spirit found entrance and they responded. Their need was greater than their trembling and their nerve stronger than their trepidation.

There was the woman who washed the feet of Jesus with her hair, pausing a meal to feed and nourish her soul. There was the man who was lowered down through the roof, disturbing a sermon for the sake of a message in healing. A woman who reached out believing a touch of the hem of Christ's garment would see faith honoured and rewarded. A father's earnest request on the roadside for his dying daughter that paved the way for resurrection. The adulterous, unharmed by stones, forgiven at the feet of the Solid Rock.

Interruptions. Some are demanding. Some a delight. All are divine. Some I receive, others I initiate. All fall under God's control. He is not caught unaware or surprised. Each phone call, each knock on the door, each diagnosis, each invitation, each casual encounter orchestrated by a God who views interruptions as intentional opportunities to grow in Him and share His love.

Rejoicing today that a blessed interruption changed a life for eternity.



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8 comments:

Lutiemom said...

Joy, what a beautiful story; filled with truths. I covet my time in the mornings to spend time in the word and with God. It can almost be disappointing when someone in the house gets up and interupts this time. Yet, the fruits of the spirit are still being nourished when we share this time with others.

Laura said...

This is so good, Joy! I need reminded that those little interruptions are part of His plan for me today. What a beautiful story, and how special to commemorate his spiritual birthday each year. You always inspire.

Tim and Susan said...

Thanks for reminding us that God is in control of our days AND those interuptions...we want to have a heart that is ready to go where He leads us for that day (even if, and usually when, it is not our plan A but HIS plan B).

elaine @ peace for the journey said...

I remember you writing about this spiritual milestone last year...

What a good mother you are! I love your tender perception and willingness to grow up your son in the fear and admonition of the Lord.

peace~elaine

Lori said...

Oh Joy~I absolutely love how you turn this day into a "focal day," just as it should be! What I would give to know the "exact day," that I was saved! And, my own 2 boys as well! This is going to be a 'treasure,' I will tuck away for my future grandchildren! :) Blessings, Lori -AZ

~Grace and Peace said...

Wow - what a powerful moment. That is a beautiful story. I also treasure my quiet time with God. But it's never really quiet because there's always chatter in the background. (My younger son is a chatterer.) My prayer is may I always be open to teachable moments and not get legalistic about my "time" with God. Because in the end it's not my time but His.

"Happy Birth-day, Chris!"

Unreasonable Grace said...

INCREDIBLE story, Joy! What a treasured memory!
kim

elaine @ peace for the journey said...

FYI...

Just finished cleaning my bathroom while listening to Mark Masri...

You do have this CD don't you? If not, let me send you one in return AWESOME!!!!

And the bathroom has never shined so brightly.

peace~elaine