Responsibility’s Reward
Matthew 1:22-23 KJV Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, (23) Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
Do you ever wonder what might have happened if Joseph and Mary had chosen to just trash that note from the government referring to some kind of ‘people—counting’? You know, maybe getting half way with Mary in her condition and determining that they had just gone far enough?
The wise men, after their long and arduous journey would have been looking all night in a crowded city for a promised king that never showed up. The angel choir would have had to cancel their Christmas program for an accepting, though somewhat baffled, audience of shepherds. A donkey would have missed out on the resume entry of ’royalty transportation’. A manger would have remained available for some other hapless traveler. There’s a possibility that God might have had to come up with a do-over– bring the whole plan to a screeching halt and somehow arrange another way for prophecies to be fulfilled and purposes met.
At the end of responsibility’s road is the possible success of some pretty well-laid-out party plans. More than just a noble response to a another seemingly insignificant governmental or church request, simple compliance apart from personal feelings and convenience monitoring could enable the fulfillment of kingdom plans and nation forming. Rather than having to find someone else to complete His desired intent, the Father will have a heart filled with rejoicing over the impact made in another willing and obedient life. His plans are the best- they’re just in need of a heeded request.
To the call for worship may there be a journey taken and arrival completed at the place where Jesus’ presence promises peace, joy and a completed life’s purpose. In the middle of this season filled with so many other demands and commitments, the opportunity is great for complying with the Father’s smallest request. As His ‘to-do’ rises to the top of the priority list, there will be a corresponding rise in His ability to bless and provide. What great things are awaiting the completed journey and God’s desire fulfilled? He is looking right now for that open, receptive, and obedient heart that will enable the outpouring of His grace.