The race you never ran. The book you never wrote. The exotic vacation you never took. All examples of “missed opportunities in life,” declares the luxury car advertisement in its appeal for you — not to add the car you never bought to the list. The fear of “missing out” runs deep in the human psyche. Who of us wants to reach the end of life only to discover all the could-have-beens?

Jesus never missed an opportunity to heal, to teach, to serve. He told his disciples it was vital to work while it was day. A time of night was approaching when it would no longer be possible to accomplish his Father’s work. So he kept healing, kept teaching, and kept serving no matter how much resistance he got from the pharisees. Nothing would stop his light from shining in the time he was allotted.

So how are we spending the time allotted to us? It’s a question I often ask, especially when the brevity of life smacks me in the face. Am I heeding God’s call? It’s the only thing, in the end, that really matters. My mission field consists of right here, right now. It might be time on my knees in my prayer closet. It might be speaking up for truth at a school board. Or it could mean “leaving for a place God will show me” (Genesis 12:1).

God has significant works for us to do. Let’s not squander the day and lament later at all the “missed opportunities.”

Lord Jesus, thank you for all the opportunities you give us to shine your light before the night comes. Please help us be more aware of your leading as we offer you our willingness to go wherever you tell us to go and do whatever you tell us to do, in your Spirit’s strength._

Throughout the Day: Consider the mission field that looms right in front of you. Ask God to show you opportunities to let your light shine and give him glory.



Tags: Daily Devotional John 9
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