Words to Grow On

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April 21, 2004

“Divine Interruptions”

By:

Lorraine Bamford

“ He who belongs to God hears what God says.”
                   John 8:4

It strikes me that much of Christ’s earthly ministry occurred as the result of interruptions. Not rude interruptions; they were more like well-timed interventions of divine presence. But I’m sure it annoyed the disciples – and probably played havoc with their palm pilots!

Look at the reality of it: people were repeatedly interrupted while in the midst of their normal, everyday activities. He had the nerve – or more correctly, the foreknowledge – to intervene at just the right moment.

Take for example His memorable inspection/interruption at the Temple. There they all are . . . minding their own business . . and conducting their everyday business in the process . . . when Jesus interrupts it all and begins to throw things around. Major interruption! Very bad for business. Very good for illustrating a point!

Parenting experts call these ‘teachable moments.’ Christ’s purpose was just that - to instruct them: “And as he taught them, he said, ‘Is it not written:’ ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations?’ But you have made it ‘a den of robbers.’” (Mark 11:17) A lesson in proper behavior and reverence that will never be forgotten!

There was even a seaside interruption. Jesus is having some ‘alone time’ with the Father on the mountainside while the disciples go on ahead of Him by boat – a normal activity for them. While they’re out there in the dark (literally and figuratively), in some rough, windy waters, He suddenly shows up! “But Jesus immediately said to them: ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.’” (Matthew 14:27) He interrupts their journey to teach them a miraculous lesson in faith. Point taken!

Remember Emmaus? This one is a seemingly casual interruption, but one that cuts right through the post-crucifixion bewilderment of His followers. As two of the disciples travel along the road, “Jesus himself came up and walked along with them.” (Luke 24:15) “Later, as they break bread together, they finally recognize who He is. “It is true! The Lord has risen.” (Luke 24:34) They meet the Savior and now believe in His resurrection. An interruption in a seemingly everyday activity that makes a profound revelation with divine implications!

It’s that way with us, as well. Sometimes we’re conducting the everyday business that fills our schedule when God uses the dramatic intervention in our lives (which we often look on as more of an interference). At other times it’s a more miraculous encounter with Christ in the midst of those rough waters that shakes up our everyday existence. And on occasion, He comes alongside to meet us in a quieter manner. But the interruptions are always on time, always purposeful and always in our best interest.

I suppose it’s because He knows us so well that He knows exactly when and where to make specific interventions in our lives. (This is the same discernment that every parent of teenagers begs for!) Our part is to stop in the midst of our everyday living . . . to listen to the voice of the loving Savior . . . and to receive His message for that moment.