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!