The restaurant was buzzing with excitement as my wife and I and two other couples were seated. The noise level and clamor were expected of a popular restaurant. We placed our orders with the server who promptly disappeared into the kitchen.
I offered to say grace before the meal was served. “Heavenly Father.” I began. “Thank you for an opportunity to meet with our dear brothers and sisters in Christ. It has been a while since we have seen one another and…”
“Would anyone like some grated cheese?”
Our server had returned. Either he did not notice we were praying or he did not care. I did not open my eyes; nonplussed, I continued.
“…We thank you for the food we are about to receive. And it doesn’t matter whatever interruptions we have for this evening, You are always welcome to interrupt us, dinner or any other time. Amen!”
Praying in public places. It is a good witness to non-believers and a reminder that it is always good to thank God for our blessings, regardless of the circumstances. The inevitable interruptions will be present and this was certainly not the first time such an incident occurred. But as I was praying, the Holy Spirit spoke to me and encouraged me to add that last request, “…Interrupt us at any time.”
The next day, I reflected upon what I said. It sounded very noble and godly but would I truly accept God’s intervention to interrupt my life?
Nearly every great saint of the Bible had their lives interrupted by God. Abraham was asked by God to leave his home and relatives. Job had his family and possessions taken from him. All of the prophets of the Old Testament were called by God to leave what they were doing and carry out God’s mission. In the New Testament, we read of the Apostle Paul on the road to Damascus and Peter and Cornelius, the centurion. Yes, their lives were interrupted but what was the outcome? God blessed them exceedingly abundantly. I need to learn from these saints.
For the Lord will not cast off forever, but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; for he does not afflict from his heart or grieve the children of men.
Lamentations 3:31-33 (ESV)
God has interrupted my life-many times. I have not always responded kindly and at times, have fought and questioned His new direction for my life. But whenever I have these second thoughts about obeying Him, I think back to the most important interruption He made in my life, when He brought me to my knees and made me realize the depths and depravity of my sins. He showed me I desperately needed a Savior and I needed to repent and turn to His Son, Jesus Christ. God’s interruptions are the times He showed me His greatest grace and mercy!
God, you are welcome to interrupt my life at anytime!
Amen!
Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.
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