The Desire To Be Last In Line

Bob Goff this morning talks about this idea that "when you love Jesus, you'll discover you love being last in line."

I love how he phrases that. He doesn't say you'll be "willing" to be last in line, but rather, you'll "love" being last in line. 

It got me to thinking about these challenging times we're in. And to continue with a theme I can't shake - that these unprecedented times provide us with unprecedented opportunities - I got to thinking about what it truly means to "work for Jesus" in these times. 

I imagined applying for a job with Jesus. And asking him, could I see your company's vision and mission statement please? Jesus would reach into his warn from the travels pocket and pull out a business card and say, here it is. It's rather simple, really, but you're welcome to it. 

I'd quickly read it. Then, that's it, I'd ask. You just want me to love my neighbor?

Yes, all of them, he'd say. Even the ones you don't like much or agree with at all. 

OK, I can hear myself saying. A bit skeptical. I get it. I think. But this mission - the last shall be first and the first will be last. Seems like some kind of company lingo to me. What's that all about?

Simple, really, he'd tell me. Any line you stand in in this life, you have to crave for everyone else to cut in front of you. 

Oh boy, you're talking about this whole toilet paper thing, aren't you?

No, not really, but now that you mention it..... 

But what I'm saying, Jesus would say, is nothing you have in life is going to bring you the joy you'll find in living with a constant desire to look out for the people around you. Nothing will compare to passionately longing to put others above self. Even the ones you don't like much - or agree with at all. 

This sounds like a tough, job, I'd say. And, I'm guessing it doesn't pay well.

You won't find a higher paying job, he'd tell me. The problem is, the pay is a little different than you're used to. Your checks get mailed to our father in heaven. He'll hold them for you - and yes, they do accrue interest. 

What about rent? Food? That new big screen TV I want?

March Madness is cancelled - what in my name do you need with a big screen TV? 

Listen, here's the thing - you put OTHERS first, then I'll put YOU first. This job doesn't come with the kind of security you are used to chasing. But really, just how is that security working for you right now anyways? This job comes with a security and a joy you're just going to have to put some faith in. But believe me, as your potential new boss - I can promise you a security and a joy beyond anything you've ever experienced. 

This morning - as I consider my imaginary job offer - I'm thinking of so many of my friends out there. Friends working in the healthcare industry. Friends working in grocery stores and other places essential to us all. Friends who are teachers who are sad about their school years cut short, but still looking for ways to put their students first. I'm thinking of friends who are out of work but proclaiming whatever I need to do to keep my friends and family safe. I'm thinking of pastors and church leaders embracing technology to keep their flocks united. I'm thinking of so many more who are honoring the mission and vision of Jesus. 

I'm loving the way so many of you are loving your neighbors. I'm loving the way you are loving the unprecedented opportunity to be last in line. 
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The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you.