Devotionals

Interruption or Opportunity?

by Robert Wilber
02/21/23
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Interruption or Opportunity?

I tend to be a structured person and enjoy having a plan and executing that plan. When something happens that was not part of my plan, I get annoyed and frustrated.

Recently, I stumbled upon something that challenged my way of thinking about unplanned events. There is a story in the bible of a woman healed of an issue of blood, by touching the hem of Jesus' garment. This event is recorded twice in the bible. The first time is in Matthew 9:18-22 NKJV, and the second is in Luke 8:41-48 NKJV. 

As He was preaching, a ruler of the synagogue approached Jesus and implored Him to come to his house and lay His hand on his dying daughter, so that she might live. Immediately, Jesus arose along with his disciples and began to follow the man to his home. Suddenly, a woman who had a flow of blood for 12 years came from behind and touched the hem of His garment. As she did so, she said to herself, “If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well.”  Jesus said, “Who touched me?” The disciples replied, Master, the multitudes throng You, and You say, “Who touched me?” Jesus said, “Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power going out from Me.” Jesus turns around and acknowledges the woman. After she shared what happened, Jesus said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”

The disciples respond to the unexpected event with frustration and anger. Jesus, on the other hand, responds with love and encouragement. How would you have responded?

We read in Galatians 6:10 NKJV

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” So, the next time something unexpected happens, I pray that we will see it as Jesus did; an opportunity to be a blessing rather than perceiving it as an interruption.

Bio: Robert Wilber loves Jesus and lives in Rhode Island with his family.