As we continue to live fully into this season of Epiphany, it becomes apparent to all who recognize Jesus as Lord, we are called to follow him. Like with the disciples, it is easy to get distracted and not only second-guess Jesus but there are also times we think maybe there is a better plan, perhaps an easier solution, or a clearer course of action than what Jesus proposes.
Think of Peter, who confessed Jesus as the Messiah. Then, shortly after his confession, Jesus explained what being the Messiah entailed. He predicted the disciples, the elders, the chief priest and scribes would kill him but he would be raised on the third day. With that said, Peter rebuked Jesus and said, “God forbid it, Lord! This must never happen to you.” (Matthew 16:22)
Or, remember when after the disciples had been with Jesus all day curing the sick, they confronted him. They were hot and tired following him around. No doubt, they wondered as evening set in, what in the world are they supposed to do with all these people who need help. Their solution was simple. Send the crowds away. Enough is enough. Let them buy food and take care of themselves. With that you will recall, Jesus took five loaves of bread and two fish. He looked up to heaven, blessed and broke the bread and gave it to disciples saying something like, “You feed them.” (Matthew 14: 19) And as a result, five thousand were fed.
One more example. Recall Thomas. Jesus assures the disciples he will prepare a place for them in his Father’s house. Thomas, blurts out in what today we might call full transparency, saying, “Seriously? We are clueless as to where you are going.” To this desire for some kind of clarification, Jesus says: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) Enough said.
What got me thinking about distractions and second-guessing Jesus was in my morning prayers today. Believe it or not, I am stressed. I’m juggling a bunch of dead-lines that are fast approaching. Yes, I am retired but that doesn’t mean I no longer serve God. I haven’t resigned from bearing witness to Jesus. And just because I don’t get in my car and go to work, I still feel the nudge of the Holy Spirit encouraging me to get up out of my Lazy-boy and do something—for God’s sake. Follow Jesus…now. All of which got me praying all the more.
With respect to stress, anxiety and worry, there is no need to seek outside help. Inside help came when I recalled the old hymn, “Just Trust and Obey.” Of course, “there is no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”
That is all I needed was to trust and obey. Trust is another of describing faith. Faith and trust go hand-in-hand. Trust and faith team-up and together whatever external worries we may have, Jesus provides us with an inner strength by “yoking” our spirit to His, and making us capable of moving forward as we offer our gifts, skills and competencies to a world in need.
Obedience, reminds us of our status as disciples. It is also referring to followers who are disciplined. Yes, we obey our Master. And we sing, “never fear, only trust and obey.”
Celtic Christianity in Scotland
Led by Jennie Weeks and the Rev. Robin Jennings
September 16-26, 2024
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Phone: (502) 762-4705 or (502) 741-1017
