Lent: With One VoiceSample

INSTRUCTION VS. RELATIONSHIP

Throughout my education, several professors influenced me significantly with their lessons and lectures by imparting knowledge. My parents, however, impacted me in far deeper ways — in behavior, interests, beliefs and worldview. The difference? Time. Hours were invested in studying with a professor; but years were spent at the side of my parents. I learned by living with my parents and by consistently observing them in daily life. ‘[Jesus] appointed twelve… that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach…’ Jesus sent out those whom He appointed Apostles. But first, He called them to be with Him.

By working with Jesus and living in the daily pattern of His ministry, the Twelve learned what it meant to be true followers of Christ. From their leader’s teaching, the disciples acquired knowledge; but more importantly, through spending time with Him, they received courage, power and grace with which to continue His ministry throughout the world.

FOR REFLECTION
• What does it mean to ‘be with’ Jesus?
• Do I have a willing heart to come when Jesus calls?

PRAYER
Jesus, I confess that I am often focused on ‘going out’ to serve You, rather than ‘being with’ You. Help me carve out time in my busy schedule to spend in Your presence, in Your Word, with You.