Q: Is It Still Daylight?

Are there not twelve hours in the day? John 11:9

In John chapter 11, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. His disciples question the wisdom of returning to the Jerusalem area, after the religious leadership committed themselves to His death. Jesus responds with this proverb. He had a mission, and until it was finished He was still on the clock.

That drive and commitment came from a deep understanding of several things that we forget or never grasped in the first place:

He had a clear sense of purpose.

We often wander through life, doing okay, but without a mission. A mission, or a purpose, or whatever you call it, doesn't have to be a big, complicated, 'move to the jungles of Africa' kinda deal. I believe my mission is a teaching mission. Right now, it's primarily raising my kids, instilling God's truths in them, modeling the up and downs in this walk. I also teach some at church and I believe writing is an extension of that.

He had an intimate relationship with the Father.

This takes time and effort to cultivate. Being a Christian for thirty years doesn't necessarily qualify. It comes from seeking God's heart, and laying ours completely bare. I struggle with this one, I admit. I know a lot about God. Sometimes, I wonder how well I know HIM. I believe it's a progressive thing, an ever-deepening relationship. The key is active pursuit.

He knew that timing is in God's hands.

Until the moment He gave up the ghost, Jesus seized every ministry moment. He wasn't sidetracked by opposition, threats or setbacks. I am easily sidetracked, slowed down or stopped by little things.

He knew the results were in God's hands.

God never holds us responsible for how others respond to His message. Was Jesus a failure because the Pharisees never believed? Of course not. In a few more chapters, we'll hear Jesus pray, "I've done what You gave me to do."

What about you? Are you doing what God has given you to do? Take heart. It's still daylight.

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