Sometimes we procrastinate because we think what we have to offer is too ordinary. We delay inviting someone over until we have a special event or a “nice” occasion. We put off bringing others into our everyday lives because we think what happens in our house or car or yard is not interesting.
Most of life is lived in the ordinary. Inviting others into our ordinary lives gives the Holy Spirit special access to hearts and minds.
I believe the Lord had this in mind in Deuteronomy 11:18. He says teach His word to our children in the ordinary conduct of everyday life – “when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.” While mending, running errands, at bedtime, at breakfast. We can teach and share life with others, too, at such times.
In 1 Thessalonians 2:8 Paul writes, “So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us. You remember our labor and toil‚Ķ that we might not be a burden‚Ķ” Paul let others know his ordinary self. Surely Paul rarely worked on a tent while sitting alone. Someone would’ve been nearby watching and listening whether the topic was Holy Scripture or how to stitch a better seam.
Jesus invited twelve men to share with him the ordinary moments of life – walking dusty roads, eating together, sleeping where they could.
Years ago a friend told me about her dad and a boy he had befriended. This young man had little support at home. Her dad invited the boy to go with him as he made the rounds during his business day, calling on different companies. In the afternoon, they sat on a roll of carpet, drinking sodas while they laughed and talked with the men of that store. The young man looked up at my friend’s dad and declared, “This is the best day of my life!”
I cannot write that without crying. My brothers and I were privileged to have those kinds of days many times with our dad. Daddy welcomed us into his everyday life – and that made it special.
These men were just “in the way” – doing what they were going to do anyway. They simply included a young person as they went along. Together we shared the business transactions, the joking, the social interaction, lunch, chats in the car. We shared an ordinary day together. And God was there.
Father’s Day reminds me of these two men. They remind me to include others in my everyday life and let the Lord do His nurturing work – on both sides.
Who has included you in her everyday life and blessed you by doing so?
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