"Convenience Stores"

 

“Convenience Stores”

 

In driving around town did you ever notice (to quote the late commentator Andy Rooney) the number of convenience stores which seem to be on every corner? These shops are so designated because their hours of operation (many are open around the clock), locations and speed of service fit into our schedules and whims. We can stop in for coffee to stay awake while driving, fill up on gas, grab a sandwich for the road or pick up an item or two we forgot on our last super market trip and be on our way quickly. For the most part they live up to their name.

We live in a world of conveniences. We use ATM’s and go through self-checkouts to avoid waiting on lines, shop and pay bills on line and have groceries delivered rather than travel to the nearest Wal-Mart or Publix. And we become annoyed when we’re inconvenienced from our normal routines.

Since it’s difficult if not impossible to separate “everyday” life from “spiritual” life we often carry the same desire not to be inconvenienced into our following and serving God. We may consider involvement in His work as long as it doesn’t interfere with our plans, but if it means giving up something or going out of our way our response may be, “O Lord, please send someone else to do it.” Sound familiar? These are Moses’ words in Exodus 4:13. But he was willing to change and God was then able to use him mightily. It’s really no different for any of us today.

Shortly before his death as David was preparing for the temple’s construction by gathering materials to be used by Solomon to complete the project he challenged the nation: “Now, who is willing to consecrate (him/herself) today to the Lord?” (1 Chronicles 29:5, emphasis added). In other words, “Who is willing to be inconvenienced so God can do His work?” Can we (I) say with God’s prophet, “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8)?

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan