The Most Fulfilling Diet Plan Ever

Meanwhile the disciples were urging him, saying, "Rabbi, eat." But he said to them, "I have food to eat that you do not know about." So the disciples said to one another, "Has anyone brought him something to eat?" Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work. — John 4:31-34

So remember, the disciples missed the entire dialogue between Jesus and the Samaritan woman because they were off looking for food. And I am sure this might have been a difficult task because they would have had to find kosher food (food that would have been appropriate for Jews to eat). But it appears they do find food. And when they return, Jesus does not immediately consume it. So they urge him to eat, probably because he appears weak and exhausted.

But his response is interesting. He transitions immediately to his spiritual priorities. He's not over-spiritualizing. He is simply declaring that there is a reason they have come through Samaria, and the reason is not just to pass through it, which is what most Jews did. They wanted to get through it as fast as possible. But not Jesus. So he is trying to show his disciples that there is a reason for the trip and the harvest is here, not there.

We all get stuck in this mentality sometimes. We believe that "there," out "there in the future," something significant will happen. And because we are so fixated on this, we miss the fulfillment of the present. I experienced this a lot as a father. I cannot recount how many times I wanted my kids to get past one stage and to the next seeking the relief of that event, moment, or stage out there in the future. And sometimes, this caused me to miss the joy and fulfillment of the present moment. And we can do this in marriage, our career, or anything. I have seen a lot of men declare this about ministry. That they cannot wait till they retire and can spend more time doing God's work. And honestly, I am sick and tired of hearing that. Right now, with all your influence in your present workplace, it is the best place to influence the world spiritually.

This is what Jesus wants these guys to see. That ministry is not out there but is right here and now. That opportunities for spiritual fulfillment are all around us if we take the time to look.

So do that today. Look around you. Adjust your priorities. See the spiritual opportunity. Because fulfillment is not out there, it is right here.

ASK THIS: Are you ready for fulfillment?

DO THIS: Pray for opportunities and see the events of your life spiritually.

PRAY THIS: God, show me the spiritual opportunities I already have.

PLAY THIS: Grave Into Gardens.