March 24, 2008
Prepared for the Moment
We recognize and even celebrate the power of a moment in sports. The winning score in the last second of the game. The shot made in the most difficult of situations. Michael Jordan made his mark on the basketball court by mastering the last few minutes of the game. He was at his best when others were looking to the end, he was strategizing and negotiating the floor for the win.
Few people understand the power of the moment. It is a split second of significance, an instance of importance, a moment in time in a brief passing that decides so much.
Looking over my life, I reflect on those moments that shaped my destiny, those glimpses that moved me to another place, another assignment. I remember those who stood boldly with me, and also those who stepped back, withdrew into a stupor, positioning themselves for self-preservation.
One thing that I have discovered is that we must be prepared for the moment. In the garden of Gethsemane disciples slept while Jesus prayed. They didn’t understand the moment in time. They couldn’t imagine the agony of his suffering in that moment. Jesus won his victory over the cross in the garden not while he was under its suffrage.
When I have friends who suffer great pains in life, I want to be alert and awakened to their trials. I don’t want their moment to be a time of solitude. I can’t stand the thought of their season of affliction to be a time of loneliness (2 Timothy 1:8).
The body of Christ shouldn’t idly stand by when we see our brothers face the challenge of the moment. I sense that we are embarking on a time that we will have to rally our faith and support for one another, not withdraw into a cowards stance of compliance. But to be bold and prepared for the moment. To challenge destiny. To step up at the moment.