Interruptions

How can you tell the difference between an interruption and a divine appointment? What makes one unplanned encounter burdensome and another life-giving?

We might be tempted to say that a divine appointment is ordered by God while the interruption is not. But that assumption prompts this question:  What is or what is not “ordered by God”?

Most of us will agree that God does not “order” sin. And most of us would also agree that just because something happens does not mean that God has actively willed it. So how do we account for those unplanned, uncounted on, and unwelcomed instances of life?

Jesus provided a pattern for dealing with life’s not-so-little interruptions by affirming faith, bringing forth hope, and extending love. In Luke 8:40-55, he is simultaneously confronted with a father’s heartbreak, a woman’s hopelessness, and a little girl’s death. In the midst of this tsunami of sin, and brokenness, and death, Jesus looks at each individual and says in turn, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” “My child, get up.”

Is it possible that God allows interrupters to cross our path because He knows we can help bring hope to those who have none? What is the difference between an interruption and a divine appointment? Is there one? Or is the difference found in the way we respond?

2 Responses to “Interruptions”

1. Kris says:

   May 8, 2011 at 10:52 pm

   Between Sunday morning preparation, meetings, visitation, family time, alone time, personal study, etc. etc. I can’t imagine any appointment that I haven’t already set up in my calendar as anything short of an interruption.

   I’m glad God tends to interrupt my schedule, because I can’t really set up divine appointments on my own. I’ve had to come to the place that I’m willing to sacrifice an hour of sermon prep for the divine appointment. It’s not always easy though. But, God’s been blessing it!
2. Dennis Moles says:

   May 9, 2011 at 5:17 am

   I hear you Kris. I think the hardest thing for me to deal with is the all-the-timeness of pastoral ministry. I know exactly what your saying about sacrifice of time not being easy. One of the hardest things for me to do is to let go of my schedule (especially study or personal time) for the sake of a divine appointment.
   Have a great day brother!