BUSYNESS

I Was Just Thinking About – BUSYNESS.

Closely akin to the idea of busyness is indifference and/or complacency. It is far too easy to become preoccupied with all kinds of self-interests and personal priorities that can cause one to ignore the bigger picture of life, culture and the world in which one lives.

I think of a lesson in the parable by Jesus Christ as He referenced an invitation extended to attend a great banquet in Luke 14:17-24 and the all-too-easy excuses that ensued. The setting was: “A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, Come, for everything is now ready.” Rather than the invitation being met with eagerness and enthusiasm, Verse 18 indicates: “But they all alike began to make excuses.”

The lessons to be learned are from the excuses that were offered in Verses 18-21: “The first said, I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me. Another said, I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me. Still another said, I just got married, so I can’t come.” It is not surprising when we read: “Then the owner of the house became angry.” Jesus goes on to apply this parable to the cost of discipleship and the levels of commitment that He requires for those who are called to serve Him.

In September 2013, James Emery White published a paper on the the Culture of Complacency in the Church. It included: “Complacency has to do with self-satisfaction, a sense of contentment regarding the state of things. And it all starts with complacency in a leader. Now, most leaders would say, I am anything but complacent! I know. That’s the problem. No one thinks they are complacent.” He then goes on to share and discuss the Five Marks of Complacency. They are: “(1) Being far too easily satisfied. (2) Being too quick to make excuses, (3) Allowing that one never has enough time. (4) Being no longer teachable. (5) Being content with early success.”

What is the very least one should do by way of focus, priorities and commitment? How will one’s efforts (or lack of the same) be measured by the Lord? What is His minimum requirement? Starting Point One: Micah 6:8, “The Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” 

Starting Point Two: Psalm 37:5-6, “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.” And, 

Starting Point Three: Proverbs 16:2-3, “All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit. Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”

Maybe you have “all your ducks in a row” and don’t need these reminders. Nevertheless - Prayerfully – consider these things with me!

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