Missed Opportunity

I missed an opportunity today.

This morning, I had a neighbor over for tea.
It is something we talked about doing for quite some time.
God graciously opened up a way for us to finally sit and get to know each other better.

Tea was in the teapot…cups were ready…applesauce oatmeal cake was freshly baked.
We sat down and without even thinking, began to enjoy the food that was before us.
And I never suggested we pray.

I am not talking about the legalistic…we must pray first…kind of prayer.
I am talking about the I’m so grateful to You, Lord for who You are and for all You’ve done…kind of prayer.

Not the…let’s check it off the list…kind of prayer.
But rather the…You are sitting with us at this table, too…kind of prayer.

I missed the opportunity to bring my neighbor before the throne of God.
I missed the opportunity to show her the reality of the Lord I serve, in the little things.
Especially in the little things.

Some may say that I’m being too hard on myself.
I don’t think so.

There are many ways to deny Him.
We cringe at the thought of ugly denials, blatant blasphemy, obvious disbelief.

But what about failing to talk about Him because you’re not sure if you should…in this circumstance?
What about playing it safe because being accepted by them is more important than being accepted by Him?

Denying Him with a kiss.
We don’t like the sound of that.
Puts us in the Judas category and that makes us uncomfortable.

I have been thinking about my missed opportunity since this morning.
When we minimize Christ, by tucking Him safely away in the corner, it is a form of denial.

I denied Him this morning by not acknowledging Him in the presence of my neighbor.
My heart was not fully turned towards Him and an opportunity was missed.
My words about Him began without words to Him.

The amazing thing is that God is always faithful, even when we are not.
Most especially when we are not.

God was present today in my kitchen for where two or three come together in My name, there I am with them. (Matthew 18:20)
That is grace.

My sweet neighbor probably never realized what I failed to do.
But I know…and it matters.

How many more opportunities have I missed?
As I was praying about this, I realized that He works His will in situations, despite me.
I am so glad about that.
Even when I fail, He gets the glory.
As it should be.

As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you.
(1 Samuel 12:23)

 

 

2 responses to “Missed Opportunity”

1. Painful reminder!

   Reply

   • Janna,
     I’m so grateful that God can redeem.
     I pray that I am always teachable.
     Gina

     Reply