Crusty Pans

July 2, 2013

Upon entering the kitchen this morning I found the neglected dishes from yesterday, awaiting me.  I entertain hopes my daughters will take initiative and clean them, but deep down I know, I really wish they would do the job, I, myself, don't want to do.  The dried on oatmeal in the pan promised to be stubborn, so I left it soaking in the suds while drying the other dishes.  When I returned to the pan, the residue, hydrated by the soapy water, was easily removed.  I reflected, the crust in the pan was like so many other issues in my life, set aside for another day when I'd feel stronger and fresher, ready to attempt the task of clean up.  I used to condemn procrastination.  But sometimes wisdom tells us to set things aside and soak them in prayer and worship, until the rough things in life are subdued, softened in the Word, easily removed.  Impatiences for progress can masquerade as diligence. But I am also painfully aware, I pray for God to do the dishes for me in my life.  God is in the water, but He calls me to engage and get the job done with Him.

Before I could cook the next meal the pan had to be cleaned.  The last meal was great, but I have to throw out the residue in preparing for the present day's vittles.  Lord, help me clean the sides of this vessel, my life, so I can be busy cooking the next meal.  I want to be found busy serving proper food for the proper time, when you come.  As always, thank you again, for your merciful love., and the gracious way You are always with me.  Even when I set things aside for another day.

The pans are clean and all is in order.  Lord, what shall we cook today?  Do you feel like a simple fare, or three hours to a Mexican feast?  Yeah, it is hot today.  We'll go simple, but nutritious!  New day, new meal suited for it!

Matt 24:45-47
“Who here qualifies for the job of overseeing the kitchen? A person the Master can depend on to feed the workers on time each day. Someone the Master can drop in on unannounced and always find him doing his job. A God-blessed man or woman, I tell you. It won’t be long before the Master will put this person in charge of the whole operation.

The Message