You've Been Drafted

Conscription is over! What began as early as the Civil War ended in 1973—or did it? Uncle Sam may not be tapping anyone on the shoulder, but God has a way of "drafting us” when he wants our help. Take Simon for instance. One minute the man was taking a stroll down a Jerusalem road, the next he was drafted. There was a man walking by, coming from work, Simon from Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus. They made him carry Jesus’ cross. (Mark 15:21 The Message)

Reading Simon’s story got me thinking. Sometimes we volunteer to serve God. At other times--like Simon--we get drafted!

  • A friend drops by unexpectedly. He needs to talk. You’ve been drafted!
  • You have a quiet moment and a good book. It is just you and your friend, Solitude, when someone comes by who needs “just five minutes.” You’ve been drafted!
  • You offer to babysit for some friends. "We'll be back by 9:00 p.m." they promise. At 9:30 they call to apologize. They are running a little late. You’ve been drafted!

I don’t like the draft. I prefer volunteering. Volunteering leaves me in charge. I can decide if I will serve, and when I will serve, and how I will serve! But there is a problem with volunteering. Sometimes I get lazy. I can become self-centered, complacent, and lethargic.

Perhaps the draft is God’s means to keep me battle-ready.

My Prayer: Lord, anytime, anyplace, anything -- I'm yours!