Scripture: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out
of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.
(2 Timothy 4:2, NKJV) A dandelion! Not
just any dandelion, but a dandelion in December. If ever there was an example
of taking advantage of every opportunity, that dandelion would surely qualify.
Now I know that many people don’t want to see what
they classify as a weed growing in THEIR yard at any time of the year. Some
might even come close to having a hissy fit until they have fully disposed
of that “noxious invader” of their life.
Instead, let’s think for a moment how we might look
upon that “flower of the field” as an inspiration. If nothing else, it added
a little sunny color to an otherwise drab winter hillside. Perhaps we might
add a little ‘Son light’ to an otherwise drab day on our own ”hillside.”
"Be ready," Paul advised Timothy, "in season and out of season."
“Be ready.” An opportunity may come at any instant,
unexpectedly. That dandelion plant was ready - and waiting. Prepared to go
‘whenever.’ A little sun, a little warmth, and it bloomed.
Paul does not use the word “longsuffering” without
reason, having experienced much opposition to his own exhortation and teaching.
Sure, there is a legion of scoffers and nay-sayers ready to pounce upon
any light brought into this otherwise drab world, whether from the sunburst
of a flower or the ‘Son-burst’ of witness of the word. Paul knew the routine
well.
Jesus, too, taught that opportunity will come when
we least expect it. The servant is prepared and waiting for the master’s
return. The wise virgins are prepared for the bridegroom’s coming, even
if the hour is inconvenient. The builder plans the house before starting
construction. The farmer does not wait until the harvest time to plant the
field, but prepares for that season well in advance.
Prepared, yes. A lot of plants were no doubt prepared,
waiting for the springtime, for the ‘proper’ season. Oh! How often do we
tarry, waiting for “the proper season.” “A more convenient time, Lord. Yes,
then I’ll bloom. Until then, I’ve just got so many other things to take care
of.”
The Bible’s right over there, Lord. I’ll study it when
I am called to teach, or to witness. Just look at the example of all of
nature. They wait for the proper season; why shouldn’t I?”
Ah! But each plant is prepared, ready to bloom when
the call comes. Even in December, even out of season.
James cautions, “ . . . you do not know what
will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that
appears for a little time, and then vanishes away.”
Take a moment to read James 4:13-17
December 16, 2007
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