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Verse:Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” —Mark 6:31, NIV
Roads and traffic can test our patience and level of Christian behavior! So, let’s start with a few questions: How do you feel when a slow driver in your lane holds you up? How do you react to the mistakes of other drivers? Do you generally feel that traffic should move faster than it does? The legendary race-car driver Mario Andretti once said, “If everything seems under control, you’re just not going fast enough.” On January 29, 1886, Karl Benz applied for a patent for his Motorwagen, which became known as the first car ever. It was a three-wheeled automobile propelled by a gasoline-powered engine. Benz unveiled his invention to the public on July 3, 1886, on the Ringstrasse in Mannheim, Germany. The maximum speed for those early models was approximately 10 mph (16 kmph). Over the years, the car industry has greatly improved. Today the production, street-legal Bugatti Veyron 16.4 can reach a top speed of 268 mph (431 kmph)! Cars reflect culture. They are faster today, mirroring our fast-paced society.
Many believe that keeping things under control rarely creates greatness. Unquestionably, fast driving can be more exciting and take us to our destination more quickly. But remember, the faster you drive, the less you appreciate the view around you. High speed can become a lifestyle, not only with respect to driving but in every aspect of life. It is possible to move so fast through life that we don’t pay attention to those around us. Even though I don’t know your personal lifestyle, I would encourage you to take Christ’s invitation seriously. “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest” (Mark 6:31, NIV). Other than giving of yourself, the most precious gift you can give to God and your loved ones is your time. Time indicates priorities and demonstrates what is important. Not spending time with God shows that you have other “gods” who get more of your time than He does. Not spending time with your loved ones conveys the message that they are not as important to you as they think they are. Reflect on these thoughts and act today.