What is that thing you started out with good intentions and enthusiastic zeal? But some where between the start and finish, the excuses began piling up.
I’m too tired.
I’m too busy.
I don’t have time.
I need help.
Blah, blah, blah…you know all the excuses you use for just not following through. In order to accomplish our dreams, there just comes a point where you have to be willing to bury all the reasons why you can’t and decide that you can and will do what it takes.
He said to another person, "Come, be my disciple." The man agreed, but he said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father." Jesus replied, "Let those who are spiritually dead care for their own dead. Your duty is to go and preach the coming of the Kingdom of God." Another said, "Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but first let me say good-bye to my family." But Jesus told him,"Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God."
In Luke 9:59-62, we see two men giving Jesus an excuse that seem reasonable for not immediately keeping their word to follow him. Who would not want to attend their father’s funeral or say goodbye to their families before leaving on a journey? But surprisingly He showed no leniency for grief or goodbyes. At first glance His response seems harsh to me but perhaps He took that attitude with them because He could see beyond their logical sounding reasons to the real issue at heart.
I love The Message version of verse 62, which states, Jesus said, "No procrastination. No backward looks. You can’t put God’s kingdom off till tomorrow. Seize the day." Will you bury the excuses today and make the most of the gift of this day?
Carole Anne Carr says
2 April, 2011 at 12:21 pmI'll try my best! :0)
BLUEBUTTERFLY says
2 April, 2011 at 1:24 pmYes. This morning, instead of regretting the extra pound, I actually walked a few extra miles. Small achievement in my goal of consistent progress in all things, but at least I did not look back.
Have a blessed day, Wanda.
Wanda says
2 April, 2011 at 1:32 pmThat's really all one can do Carole.
Way to go Bluebutterfly. Keep moving.
welcome to my world of poetry says
2 April, 2011 at 1:36 pmA good B post Wanda, I agree it takes longer to think of excuses than put some effort into our dreams.
Yvonne.
septembermom says
2 April, 2011 at 1:36 pmWow! You gave me a good push to think in a clearer way about where I am right now. Thank you! I'm so happy that I found your blog and count me in as a follower 🙂 Enjoy your day!
Cherie Hill says
2 April, 2011 at 1:41 pmWhat an AWESOME post Wanda! You've managed to hold a pep rally for my faith!
Blessings!
Cherie
Joanne Sher says
2 April, 2011 at 1:42 pmOh did i EVER need this reminder. FIRST – no place else will do.
Stuff could always be worse says
2 April, 2011 at 2:51 pmExcuses, we do make them! Yes I will make the most of the day! Thanks
kim
Holly Ruggiero says
2 April, 2011 at 2:59 pmGreat advice as we start the weekend!
baygirl32 says
2 April, 2011 at 3:06 pmgreat advice!
stopping by from the a to z
http://baygirl32.blogspot.com
Joan says
2 April, 2011 at 10:24 pmalso think that Jesus saw beyond their words…He knew there hearts. They were only offering excuses.
And how many times in my own life have I done the same? Great reminder to put aside the excuses and obey!
Blessings,
Joan
Giggle, Laugh, Cry says
2 April, 2011 at 11:13 pmJust stopped by from the A-Z Challenge!!
gigglelaughcry.blogspot.com
Nf1andprek-whisper says
3 April, 2011 at 12:01 ami always need some spirtual words.. so I am glad… to find your blog
Penned Pebbles says
3 April, 2011 at 1:32 amGreat B post! One that I needed!! Thank you for stopping by my site. Blessings and happy A2Z!
Penned Pebbles
Jingle says
3 April, 2011 at 2:31 amlove your B word,
beautiful message on it.
Lorena G. Sims says
3 April, 2011 at 5:04 amwow this really makes me think..great post!
Melissa Kline says
3 April, 2011 at 5:18 amHi Wanda! Beautiful and inspiring blog! Thanks for the lovely comment. 🙂
~Melissa
Reflections on Writing
Patrina's Pencil says
3 April, 2011 at 5:36 amExcellent word. I love the way the message put it too. Plain language.
Just Be Real says
3 April, 2011 at 9:09 amOh Wanda, this is a good one. With great advice. Thank you always for touching me at the right time with God's word. Blessings.
Laura Pauling says
3 April, 2011 at 11:13 amThanks for sharing. Seize the day! In all ways, for God, our family, our writing. Great post!
Manzanita says
3 April, 2011 at 12:17 pmYou're so right. We shouldn't look around or a sideways glance…. just do it now. Such timely advice.
Manzanita
Wanna buy a duck
Grammy says
3 April, 2011 at 4:17 pmYeah, Wanda, No excuses is right. I never make an excuse, I just say, "nope, didn't get it done…too bad!" Ha. Thanks for your visits and support. Love,Ruby
Candyland says
3 April, 2011 at 5:22 pmLOVE this! I actually needed to hear this as I've been procrastinating on some important things lately. Thanks)
Sylvia Ney says
3 April, 2011 at 7:11 pmWhat a wonderful blog – a true inspiration and testament to the Lord's design. Thank you for sharing.
Jeffrey Beesler says
4 April, 2011 at 2:37 amI will definitely strive to live each day to the fullest and to seize opportunities as they arise.
bendedspoon says
4 April, 2011 at 10:19 amI am determined on not making an excuse on why I can't finish this A to Z challenge! Lord please help me 🙂
Mike says
4 April, 2011 at 5:33 pmGreat encouragement! Thank you.
Brings to mind Hebrews 3:15 As has just been said: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion.