Action

I spent time with my brother and his family last weekend. On Saturday morning, he and my nephews went to their Jiu Jitsu practice, and I went for a ride. Following lunch we began to discuss what to do with our afternoon. We had an active morning and it was hot outside. Indoor, low-key options were discussed. Then, my nephew Harrison, brought up the idea of going to ride bikes (and Onewheels) on their local greenway!

My brother must have been reluctant to endorse the idea.   I’m sure he was tired from Jiu Jitsu practice.  Staying home, he could enjoy air conditioning as well as the new TV he just got the night before.  There was also the hassle of loading and unloading the bikes and equipment needed for the journey.  Matt embraced the idea though, brushing aside the reasoning preventing the ride and, instead, realizing the promise of the adventure that lay ahead.  

We had a blast cruising together, the weather was amazing, and precious memories were made.  I think we all slept really well that night—tired and without the regret of missed opportunity.

My brother’s family has an amazing greenway close to their home.  They all have bikes and they have a nice carrier to keep the baby in tow.  It is convenient but they can always find a reason not to go “out.”  It takes discipline to learn to listen to the voice of potential and to embrace the unknown.  I’m proud of Matt for looking past the, “why we shouldn’t…”; to go out and experience “why we should.”

‘“Come, follow me,” he said, “and I’ll show you how to fish for people.” ‘ Matthew 4:19

When it comes to following Jesus we too often are just standing there holding our nets.  Jesus invites us to come, to follow, but our feet don’t move because our minds are flooded with the reasons why we can’t or shouldn’t…and often we don’t know exactly where God is leading us.  

Jesus invites us to come and discover that “why.” We can’t understand what is ahead but God promises to show us…to reveal the significance we search for. Discipleship is more than belief, “following” requires action. Learn to look beyond the reasons preventing your action and embrace the invitation to discover all that Jesus has to show you.