Those of us living for more than a few decades have a special appreciation for modern technology. For example: the television remote control, digital cameras, and the microwave. Hardly a week goes by that I don't say, "What the heck did we do without these things?"
A much appreciated convenience is the ability to "fast forward" past unwanted information on our electronic media. Whether data, music, voice, or video, we have the ability to instantly fast forward past the parts we don't particularly care to see or hear. Just hit the fast-forward button and presto, we're by the tedious stuff.
I was prompted to seriously think about this subject the other night as Linda and I were watching a favorite TV program. At the close of the episode, a teaser was presented about the following week's program. Intrigued by the promotion, I turned and jokingly asked Linda, "Can we fast forward to next week?" As soon as I heard the words I recognized that my off-the-cuff comment had expressed more than idle conversation about not waiting to see the next episode of a show. The fact is, I often search for ways to "fast forward" past the yucky areas of my life – get to the parts of interest or intrigue.
The poet wrote, "Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans." To the non-believer that maxim might ring true, but for the Christian what happens on the way becomes tantamount to the "destination” itself. Life's unexpected hurdles are much more than obstacles blocking destiny's doorway. The process of life is vitally important... it transforms us into people "of" God, rather than people "for" God. The process allows us to radiate the plan, not merely carry it.
For those who lead, the process becomes all the more significant. Christians hesitate to follow men or women whose lives don't reflect the destiny of which they speak. When "who" a leader is stands in contrast to "where" he is going, people will tend to step back and watch rather than follow. It is often a subtle reality, but it holds true.
Consider the "process" encountered by the heroes of scripture. Joseph reached his full potential as a leader only after he survived the incredibly difficult process in his life – the dreadful pit and a trip to Egypt. David became the divine template for Israel's monarchy after a most arduous journey – twenty years on the run from a foolish king. All the treachery and evil endured by these two young men transformed them into powerful leaders capable of changing the world.
So hey! Don't even think about hitting that "fast forward" button. Hang in there and pay attention. Life is better lived as we allow our uncomfortable "today's" to change us into people who can fully grasp hold of our exciting tomorrows.
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