Brenda’s Blog – August 11, 2015
“Gather up the broken pieces that are left over, so that nothing is wasted.” (John 6:12)
Jesus feeds five thousand people then instructs the disciples to pick up the leftovers. They gleaned 12 basketsful.
Why should this interest us? We usually focus on the magnitude of turning four small biscuits and two sardines into an ample feast. But isn’t there more to learn?
Those snatches of time can be thrown away easily. Those smidgens of energy can be wasted. But think of the possibilities. I have a friend who studies scripture on flash cards as she sits in carpool line. Others (who are way more fit than I) grab moments to do leg lifts, jumping jacks, or deep breathing exercises.
A successful salesperson keeps notepaper with stamped envelopes close by in the car. Yes, there are some who actually send handwritten notes. Those little pieces of time allow her to keep in touch in a most personal way.
My Dad used to clip newspaper articles, apply a sticky note with “Thought you’d be interested” and then send off to friends. He used extra minutes to stay in touch.
I am not recommending a frenetic, “use-every-minute-” lifestyle. But I do think there are baskets left uncollected which may be used for the benefit of others.
The Bible tells us to “redeem the time.” To me, this means adopting an attitude of stewardship which takes into account all of our resources: time, talent, and treasure. To live redemptively we lay each day before the Lord asking for the best use of ourselves.
Practically, when we take that extra minute to throw something into the wash, put a file away, kiss that grandchild, or make that quick phone call we are good stewards of those extra baskets.
I want to think constructively about making the most of everything I am given. I want to see God’s big miracles, but I want to be ever aware of those important leftovers.