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Sunday, August 01, 2010
Monday morning, as we made the final preparations for the
arriving Vacation Bible School students, I asked Sandra to
unlock the pantry. We hurried to the door and she slid the
key into the lock – but it wouldn’t turn. She jiggled the
key several times, then laughed and explained that she had
to remember to turn the key slowly, because whenever she
tried to rush or force the key, it wouldn’t work. So she
turned the key slowly and the door opened. With a smile,
she suggested there was a lesson to be learned there– and I
warned her that she had provided us with this week’s
bulletin insert!
We’ve all been there, haven’t we? We’re so sure we have
the key to the door, the solution to the problem, and yet as
we shove the key in the lock and bang our shoulder against
the door, nothing happens. Our impatience impedes the
process. We push so hard that the pressure keeps the key
from turning properly. We blame it on the condition of the
lock or the weight of the door, but it’s really about how
we’re using the key. It is only when we take a moment to
think about how it should work – to pay attention to our own
conduct, to consider the other person in the conversation,
to reflect on the proper attitude for prayer – that we can
make progress and open doors.
Throughout the week, we strove to teach the children that
belief in the Lord provides them with the key to everlasting
life, but we also discussed with them the responsibilities
of good discipleship that go along with the joy of being
God’s children. As they go forward to be “bizzy bee-lievers,”
we pray that they will hold the key firmly but use it
gently, to make their lives and the lives of those around
them richer, happier, and filled with the love of Christ.
Let’s all endeavor to do the same in the days ahead, to
hold our keys with faith and joy, and to open doors with
love and forgiveness, that we may all move forward together
and draw closer to the Lord.
“Devote yourselves to
prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too,
that God may open a door for our message.”
Colossians 4:2-3
