+DEV+ Time for People

Date: May 20, 2009 10:07 PM

Topic: +DEV+     Time for People

Time for People

Scripture Focus: Mark 6:30-44

“Be very careful, then, how you live not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16).

My weekly “to do” schedule keeps me functioning. Without it, I accomplish little, but sometimes it gets in the way of relationships. I have to fight the tendency to stick to the list instead of making time for people who haven’t been scheduled.

Jesus faced the same conflict. After sending out His disciples on an extended mission and hearing about the death of John the Baptist, He scheduled time alone with the Twelve when they returned.

However, His plans were interrupted by a crowd of people. Instead of sticking to His planned schedule, He took the time to teach the multitude and heal the sick. In fact, He spent so much time that His disciples began to worry that it growing late. Instead of sending the crowd away to eat, Jesus spent even more time with them, feeding them by means of a miracle.

Do you reflect Jesus‚ heart by building relationships choosing to set your schedule aside and take or make time for individuals? Or are you too busy with your own plans?

Insight: What friend, neighbor, relative, or acquaintance do you need to spend time with soon? When will you do it?