INTERRUPTIONS.

When they come into our lives, we usually don’t like it much.

An unexpected traffic jam on the way to the office. A meaningful conversation cut short by something mundane. A cell phone rings in the theatre or church sanctuary, and your focus is broken. A beggar standing at the intersection asks you to dig into your pockets for change before the light turns green. A last minute task keeps you from leaving work on time.

Interruptions disrupt our plans, and upset our routines. They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and are unwelcome events that we quickly brush off as an inconvenience. We are bothered and annoyed when things don’t go our way. When life throws us a curve ball, we pout and complain. I’ve recently thrown myself a few all out self-pity parties when MY way was not going to be THE way.

Yet, I wonder how many of the“irritating” interruptions that flash into our lives could actually be opportunities that God is placing before us to exist in a new level of His purpose and blessing. I know it’s hard to embrace these interruptions, but consider this – everything happens for a reason… even when that reason is still unknown to us.

Think about how many times in the Scriptures where God was behind the unexpected interruptions that invaded people‘s lives. Mary’s wedding plans crashed by her ‘immaculate’ conception. Saul’s journey to persecute Christians in Damascus was ended early by an encounter with Jesus. Even Jesus Himself performed many miracles after His agenda was officially ‘interrupted’ by the loud-mouthed blind, beggars and other needy people.

I think there is something to be gained when we change our own perspective, and open ourselves up a little more to the divine ‘interruptions’ that come our way. When we let go of our tight-fisted clench of how WE think our daily lives should unfold, we are more apt to see things as God wants us to, and respond accordingly.

Though we (hopefully) may never encounter some of the major interruptions we see in the scriptures, I still believe there are many other meaningful ones lurking out there for us to discover in our daily lives. Opportunities to serve or help someone in need. Catching a glimpse into the profound heart of God. Hearing His voice that’s speaking towards a need for us to change the way we live.

But if we shun these interruptions, we lose out on the gems that are hidden within. Like a Saviour being born. Like a mighty Apostle parading the Gospel everywhere he can. Like Blind Bartimaeus receiving his sight.

What gems are lying in wait within our distractions today?

JJ