JESUS ON TIME MANAGEMENT

As we encounter the Gospel this weekend from Mark 1:29-39, there is a definite connection with the whole issue of time management. Our own utilization of time is often one of the most frustrating experiences we have as human beings. We are way too busy with the list of activities, obligations and responsibilities that seem to have no end. We feel guilty when we say "NO." And we feel guilty when we say "YES." Someone is always asking us to do something or be somewhere, or take part in an event, whether it is members of our own family, co-workers, neighbors, church members, or some organization wanting our time to help them!

From a Biblical perspective, this Gospel text from Mark 1:29-39 is about time utilization. In Biblical times, the story is literally ordered by the sun . . .Jesus is preaching in the Synagogue on the Sabbath, healing in the afternoon (before the evening meal). There are healings after sundown, prayers before dawn, traveling to the next town to preach and cast out demons. Here are a few thoughts for you to ponder . . . How much time do you "waste" in a given 24-hour period? How do you prioritize your time? Compare your experience to that of Jesus and the schedule Jesus had. Isn't it interesting that in the Gospel accounts, Jesus always seems to be very busy, but is never rushed . . . never too busy to deal with problems that he encounters on the way . . . never too busy to heal . . . never too busy to pray and never too busy to meet people where they are. How can we find that same sense of inner peace in our harried lives? How can we find that same sense of inner joy and fulfillment as we rest in God's creative and life-giving power and will?

PRAYER: O God, help us to that sense of fulfillment and peace as we seek to do your will, as we seek to find your presence in all that we are and do, as we seek to discover the secret to embracing the time you give to us each day in our encounters, relationships and in our work. Help us to never to be too busy for you or too busy for the encounters and experiences that will meet us this day. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

SPECIAL ADULT FORUM - SUNDAY 9:00 AM - Room 200 - "A Family Perspective On Relating to Autism". David Holliday will share his experiences of dealing with the challenges and the opportunities of autism both as a teacher and as a parent.

Alive in Christ,