What's your Bottle?

I’m becoming more active with our urban ministries on the East Side and this Sunday it was raining and so I was giving rides to some of the congregants who normally walk. After everyone else had already been dropped off, there was 1 man who was asking to be taken downtown to the mission. Once in the car, it was clear he had been drinking. Perhaps against my better judgement, I drove him anyway. In the car, we had a discussions about whether or not God can use you when you’re not of sound mind. Granted, I’m not sure how meaningful a conversation can be when you’re under the influence- but he prompted the issue and was receptive, and I took that as a good sign. We talked about the predicament of having the bottle in one hand and the Bible in the other: both incredibly powerful influences that, in time, will require both hands. We talked about how he would handle the moment he would have to choose which one he’d let go of.

On my way home, I was reminded again of the awesome ways that God works and how he brings us into positions of service- often to be served. He use uses the weak to lead the strong. How he humbles us.

How many "bottles" do I have in my hand on a daily basis? And how many times have they interfered with His ability to use me for His glory? It's the story of dying daily... common ground for us all.