Avoiding Distraction

How easily do you get distracted? I have to admit that my phone and tablet make it really easy to get off task as I check emails and respond to messages. And then, of course, there is always the temptation to research a question that pops into my head. As has been noted by many, we are in an era of “information overload.”

This weekend’s Gospel reading tells us about how Jesus chose the twelve apostles and sent them to declare that the Kingdom of heaven has come near. As Jesus sent them out, He gave them specific instructions to only go to the “lost sheep of Israel,” and avoid going to areas where the Gentiles or Samaritans were. At first glance, that may seem that Jesus was being too exclusive. Why not go to as many people as possible right away? After all, Doesn’t God love the whole world?

Of course He does, and after Pentecost we see the Church going into all the world. In fact, Jesus Himself had interactions with Samaritans and Gentiles. So what’s the point? He doesn’t want the apostles to get distracted but to start where they are.

And so it is for you and me. None of us probably has the ability to stop what we’re doing and spend our days going into as many neighborhoods as possible knocking on doors and sharing Jesus. But what we all have is a circle of influence: family, friends, school, work, clubs, neighbors. And that is where God puts us and the Holy Spirit equips us to reflect the love and compassion of Jesus.

But what about all the questions people may have? First, that is why we offer extra Bible study opportunities to discuss those things and help give clarity. But really, the more important thing is the basic message of Christianity which brings us great joy. Paul says it so well in this weekend’s epistle reading from Romans 5:10: “For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of His Son while we were still His enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of His Son.” (New Living Translation)