Do you remember the blog entry prior when I mentioned how I’d driven past THAT bag of trash a half dozen times and never bothered to pick it up. Remember how the trash bag eventually burst or was torn open and the mess was everywhere? Do you recall the analogy I made with knowing I could have taken the opportunity to pick up the trash and used that ‘teachable’ moment in front of my kids, and how that relates to reaching out to share the Gospel with others?
I remembered. Barely. I zipped right past a bag of trash this morning. In my defense either it wasn’t there on my way into town or I simply didn’t see it. On the way back to the farm from town, I spotted a bag eerily similar to the last one. I drove past it. The light bulb didn’t flick on. Why you ask? Because it wasn’t a 25 watt incandescent bulb that you’d picture flipping on that still barely illuminates that hallway closet… Nope. It was no flicker. It was the fire-like intensity of 10,000 suns burning into my brain’s soul.
I took a quick glance in my mirrors, and then jammed on the brakes. I was in reverse the split second my truck had come to a halt. I backed so fast that it was as if time had reversed itself. I jumped out of the truck and snagged that nasty little bag of trash. Yes. It was nasty as all get out. But, it can ride in the back for a few miles and then into the dumpster it goes. Right? How much trouble is that?
I know, I know. It’s just a little sack of trash Michael. Don’t break your arm patting yourself on the back. You’re only doing what the rest of us already do. If you’re thinking that, you’re probably right. But, for me, it was a small victory. And I’ll take it. Maybe the seven or eight cars that were all local residents considered doing the same as they passed me during the retrieval of this little bag of good tidings. Maybe it’ll spark them to do the same.
Maybe this is analogous of the situation where I have listened to Pastor Steve and Pastor Brian mention “planting seeds” if you will. I plant a seed. Another person comes along and waters it. Another person shines light on it, etc. Or maybe I’m the water guy, and somebody else got their hands dirty planting in the soil. I’m not sure, but I know it was the right thing to do, and it wasn’t hard. If only we approached sharing Him like that, we’d probably learn similar things. Wouldn’t we?
2 Corinthians 9:6 – Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
Here’s my trash selfie:
Am I thoroughly enjoying my experience? No. I didn’t say picking the little smelly bag was fun, but the satisfaction and the act itself were supremely satisfying. Be salt and seek light friends.
