Introduction
We are in a culture where we place a heavy emphasis on productivity.
We jam pack our schedule and fill up every little gap in our schedule for the sake of increased productivity.
One of the ways to stay productive is to avoid all interruptions. But interruptions constantly get in the way.
When we are being interrupted, we become irritated, frustrated and sometimes even angry
Jesus lived a very busy life but He seemed to thrive on interruptions.
Evidence
Jesus’ first miracle was performed as a result of an interruption from his mother (John 2:1-11) Jesus turned an interruption into a miracle.
Jesus healed a paralytic when His teaching was interrupted (Mark 2:1–5). Jesus turned an interruption into an invitation to do the good work of the Father.
A great storm arose and the disciples got scared and Jesus’ sleep was interrupted. Jesus calmed the wind and the sea. Jesus again turned an interruption into an invitation to strengthen His disciples’ faith, Including our faith. (Mark 4:37-41).
Jesus was interrupted so frequently that even His interruptions were interrupted. Jesus’ trip to heal the daughter of a ruler of the synagogue was interrupted when a woman with a discharge of blood for twelve years touched His garment. Her faith had healed her. Jesus was interrupted again when he was told that the daughter of the ruler of the synagogue had died. Jesus went anyways and healed the little girl. (Mark 5:21–43)
Jesus further illustrates this very important point with the Parable of the Good Samaritan when He was interrupted yet again by a lawyer. (Luke 10:25-37)
Summary
Jesus uses all these interruptions as opportunities to do God’s mighty work.
As Jesus’ followers, we can imitate Christ by following His example of turning Interruptions into Invitations.
Instead of being hostile to interruptions, be hospitable to interruptions
Expect detours, and surprises in your life and when they happen, allow them, embrace them.
Take each interruption as a mean to experience the transforming power of Jesus on yourself or someone else.
You will be more aware of His presence. You will be closer to the Father and your life will be transformed.
Henri Nouwen has once said this near the end of his life: “My whole life I have been complaining that my work was constantly interrupted until I discovered the interruptions were my work.”
Invitation
Would you continue to be hostile to interruption? Or
Would you start creating a time in your schedule and prepare for these interruptions?
The next time an interruption comes along, instead of dodging and getting rid of it. Would you consider coming in front of the Father and ask Him for guidance on how you can fulfill His will through this disruption?
When you say yes to this invitation, Jesus will be a major interruption on your life and your life will be changed forever for the better.
