Random Notes (#70)

So, this is about action. No, I amnot here to deliver the promised evangelism rants yet. This is a reflection on the action of a motivated and faithful believer. That which all should aspire to and achieve.

I have seen, in the last months, a rather large calling placed upon believers around me and yes even myself, the reluctant servant. I have been called to many things, but of them one has stood out. It risks a close friendship and yet must be done regardless of my feelings. This matter I am supposed to approach my friend on is no small one. It is infact no less than an accusation and rebuking of his hearts desire. Oh the torment I have felt over this, but it is clear to my heart what must be done and the Spirit has pushed me once to act already. Though I failed and floundered I did give it a go, but apparently God was only pleased with the effort and not the delivery because He has asked me to do it over. If I am to lose my friend, it will be.

As I ponder my situation I take notice to those around me rising up one after the next, ready or not, and taking on tasks that God requires of them. Maybe this has always been and I was just blind to it. Maybe He is calling this generation to move from its complacency. In either case we surge forward, reaching out as His messengers and servants. I have seen on the same topic as the one I face (mentioned above) a group of Christian friends rally and invest themselves deeply in the outcome of the matter which I am bound to now. It softens my heart to see the true concern and the willingness to risk loss for the sake of another. This is a Christ centered community in action. While the message is not well received (and perhaps not always well delivered) they surge forward still. On another front I have seen a man receive a calling to his own family of late and respond with a minimum of (perhaps even no) hesitation. For the sake of his love he moved into the unknown, holding hope and delivering a message. A wonderful sign of the times and of a persons commitment to not only our beliefs, but also to the love that we hold.

The most potent of all these examples however is to be found in another dear friend. As time has passed, action (which was once my friends strong suit) became a weakness, lost to attributes of peace and optimism. Yet through regeneration that once strong trait has returned and now with guidance of God leading it. I am amazed, as I can count the instances I debate and miss I see the decisiveness and assurance of my friends actions. I also have seen the fruit of her loyalty and it is good. And this is the strongest of all examples in my view (none are less valid of course) and this is my aspiration on the matter of following divine direction. I have been given many gifts and raised up in understanding (though I have much to learn still), but in action and bravery I have most often faltered. Daily receiving motivation to speak or act and struggling to do so...often missing divine moments. It is changing, but I wish it to be resolved and in motion already. My patients is limited when it comes to my own failures I guess.

So I wanted to raise these persons up if only briefly, because I am proud of them as my brothers and sisters. I would think that God himself has smiled on this day because of their devotion to Him and one another. Bless you my friends...