As I get older, there are a few things that I enjoy more than others.  I really enjoy waking up in the morning because, well, I’m still here.  I enjoy giving God praise and thanking Him for another day.  I enjoy praying and seeing listening for what is waiting for me.  I enjoy going out and seeing how I can make a difference in someone’s life; saying something nice or encouraging them in a way that makes them want to go a little further. I enjoy having the opportunity to try to make a difference in the lives of the people I come in contact with.

The other thing I enjoy is returning home in the evening.  I enjoy sitting still and reflecting on my day.  I ponder if there is anything I could have done differently.  I think is there anyone I could have done more for, or even someone I should have given more space.  I wonder if I did what the Lord wanted me to do today; was my mission complete.  I pray there was no one I hurt or offended, that there isn’t anyone I need to apologize to. I also pray if it is, that God would allow me the chance to make it right.

As I reflect on my day, I think, was my behavior a reflection of Christ.  Was I the closest thing to Christ, someone who does not know Him came in contact with?  Did I say the right things or react the right way?  Was my persona that of Christ’s love?  More importantly, if God called me home at any moment throughout the day, would I have been ready?

A while back, the late, great, Pastor Burton Clemons spoke a message on “Being a First Responder.” He told us to do something for someone else.  Buy some flowers, sneakers, etc.  Do something to reach other.  In Matthew the 9:35-38, Jesus spoke these words,

35-38 “Then Jesus made a circuit of all the towns and villages. He taught in their meeting places, reported kingdom news, and healed their diseased bodies, healed their bruised and hurt lives. When he looked out over the crowds, his heart broke. So confused and aimless they were, like sheep with no shepherd. “What a huge harvest!” he said to his disciples. “How few workers! On your knees and pray for harvest hands!” Message (MSG).

We are to be those harvest hands.  So many people are waiting for a touch from someone, just to know they care.  We are to be the messenger of hope and love for Christ.  We are to do as Pastor Clemons stated, “Be a First Responder.”  That means we don’t wait to be told by others, asked if we can, or question why.  We do as our hearts lead us, as God would have us to do, we simply respond.

 “In response to your prayer I will send forth a missionary.  I will send you.” “What did you answer? That you were willing? Or that you wanted others sent out to the mission field?”

 “Or did you receive this answer from the Lord: “I will in answer to your prayer send out a missionary. And since you yourself are too old to go, I will send your grown-up child?”

“Or did the Lord answer you thus: “I have heard your prayer about sending forth laborers.  But you yourself are too old, and you have no children to send in your place.  Send me therefore your money for the time being?”

God’s Word for Today, O. Hallesby