As I was planning my day recently and thinking about what I needed to get done, I thought of a few people I wanted to send notes of thanks to. The phrase - slow to give thanks - came to mind as I pictured the writing and sending of a paper or electronic note.
One thing I continue to be aware of in this slowing is that people are worth slowing for. If I rush through emptying the dishwasher or work as hard as I can for 15 minutes won't that allow me to be freer to slow for souls? To let them know they are wroth slowing for?
When I think of this, Jesus comes to mind. This was His expertise while on Earth - ministry to people. He slowed for souls. There are now numerous directions I want to go with this exploring and studying. But, let's start with the beginning thought first: slow to give thanks
Naturally, a next thought was of the ten lepers where only one came back. I would love to think that one who returned was a slow-lover and learner like me.
Luke 17:11-19
*Jesus was traveling. Now, this train of thought is tricky because He knows and thinks differently and more fully than we do. {"My thoughts are not your thoughts..."} But I can try to put myself in His shoes for a moment, if I am traveling - I have a destination and goal in mind. How would I react to a detour or interruption such as this? Would I be able or willing to slow my heart, mind and soul to see the heart of the other and perhaps God's higher purpose?
*I am not able to heal as Jesus did physically or spiritually, but if a soul calls out to me, I can point them to the one who can. Do I embrace every opportunity to glorify God as Jesus beautifully models?
*Jesus did not perform a miracle visibly right there on the spot. He gave them a task to do in response to their request. This requires faith and their participation. It is not one-sided. It strikes me that when someone makes a request of me - I will likely try to carry it out to the fullest, wrap it up with a bow and present it on a beautiful silver platter. Jesus knew when to do that but He also knew when to restrain for the benefit of others and God's glory. This is a boundary He knows how to set and we can learn from His example.
*Picture this: as they went, they were cleansed, it was in the process of obeying and faith-displaying that their healing took place.
More tomorrow ...
Photos:
Samuel talking to my parents on the phone.
Pansies spotted at the park.
Funky/cool light at the frozen yogurt shop.
