( © Rev. William H. Anderson, August 14, 2002 )

When I had been newly restored in my Faith by God, I had a few instances that confused and concerned me. One of these was the attitude of my Pastor and a Deacon.

During one prayer meeting, the Pastor and a Deacon started talking about driving and how they hated it when someone got in front of them and was only going the speed limit. The Pastor bragged about how he was able to get around them and get anywhere faster than anyone else. Then he complained about getting a ticket for going 65mph in a 25mph zone and how expensive it was. The Deacon talked about how when he gets behind two cars on the expressway and they are both going the same speed that he would just hit the gas and go between them, driving down the center line, making one to go right and the other to go left, forcing them out of his way.

This conversation has haunted me for a long time, but I just kept shaking it off. You see, I agreed with the attitude that no one should get in my way and slow me down. I had the right to get where I needed to go without anyone slowing me down. This attitude showed a distinct disregard for the safety of others and the laws we live under. Yet it was normal and acceptable to these two leaders of the church and by other members of the church, like me.

One day God “hit me up aside the head with a 2 X 4.” When He had my attention He reminded me of my status as a Child of God, and as a Christian, and how He expected me to Represent Him and Minister to His people. Then He reminded me of the extensive safety training I had in the US Air Force and how I had even taught safe driving while in that position.

Then God pointed out to me something we seem to forget. We, the parts of the Body of Christ, are expected to feed and care for His Sheep, the people on this earth who we live with. How can you feed the flock when you are flying past them at 100mph? How can you minister to the weary when you’re too busy trying to get past them? And, how can you carry the Word of God to the world when all they ever see are your taillights and a bumper sticker about the Love of Jesus?

We are all on this earth together. But, only a few of us are here to carry the Word of God to the rest. I pray you will reconsider how you are living. We are His ministers to the world! Are you too busy to listen or talk with someone and share Christ? Why not slow down and give yourself time to talk with God and provide someone the opportunity to see Jesus is a part of your life? 

John 21:17 - He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. (KJV)

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