Distracted!

One of the greatest challenges in life is distractions. Think about a child who has just gotten a new toy and just can't wait to play with it. It doesn't matter what else is going on, that toy has their attention and even if the weather is not right for its use, they just have to go out right then and use it!

Even as we get older, when we get something new we just can't wait to get out and put it to use. Perhaps even if we don't have time, we will make time even if that means letting some other things go. Five days ago we made the purchase of something of a recreational nature we are eager to get out and use. However, the week's schedule has just not permitted it. Even Saturday was too full to work it in. There have been other things more important to do and therefore trying out this new thing will have to wait. We are not going to let it distract us from what really needs to be done. There are presently other PRIORITIES of which to take care.

When Jesus told the parable of the great banquet (found in Luke 14:16-24 and holding similar application to the parable of the wedding feast found in Matthew 22), when it was time for the guests to come, some offered excuses. We read. . .

"(18) But THEY ALL ALIKE BEGAN TO MAKE EXCUSES. The first said to him, 'I HAVE BOUGHT A FIELD, and I must go out and see it. Please have me excused.' (19) And another said, 'I HAVE BOUGHT FIVE YOKE OF OXEN, and I go to examine them. Please have me excused.' (20) And another said, 'I HAVE MARRIED A WIFE, and therefore I cannot come.'" ( Luke 14:18-20 ESV)

This parable related to accepting the invitation to come into the Lord's kingdom and each excuse represented a life distraction that got in the way. There was other stuff to do. There were other matters with which to deal. To even consider these excuses in a present day setting, would one buy property without first having checked it out? Would one buy a tractor or a vehicle without first seeing how it ran? Are there relationships that have been put first before the Lord and the kingdom of which we are to SEEK FIRST? ( Matthew 6:33) Is there stuff we want to do before we turn our life completely over to Christ?

Matthew and Luke also recorded where some made excuses to Jesus for their not following Him immediately. ( Matthew 8:18-22; Luke 9:57-62) They had OTHER THINGS TO DO FIRST. Did they ever follow? It may unfortunately be likely they did not! It is always risky to put the things of God on the back burner of life. Certainly there is nothing wrong with some leisure time for rest and recreation and this life does have its responsibilities. However, we must ALWAYS KEEP SUCH IN THEIR PLACE; not allowing ourselves to be distracted from taking care of what is of eternal significance. May our LIFE PRIORITIES reflect our genuine devotion to the Lord. Remember what He gave for us!

Have a great day KEEPING FIRST THINGS FIRST!
Carl

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