Running on Empty

The panic buying of petrol & diesel has led to many petrol stations having no fuel. Like a pub with no beer, a petrol station with no fuel is almost unthinkable. And in a culture obsessed with driving wherever and whenever we want to go, suddenly people's lives may be affected. 

Here is a startling thought - we may not be able to do what we want!! Shock, horror!! Will some claim that their human rights have been infringed? We don't like it when we are running on empty.

After the brief experience of being a Slum Survivor for two nights, when we simulated the lives of the billions who have nothing, we all could see how we are addicted to greed and gluttony. Without much food, and few frills, music or thrills, life was grey and cold. While we may have appeared to be running on empty, the quality of our human relationships was wonderful.

In Holy Week, as we follow Jesus, we see how he addresses people running on empty. ' I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honour anyone who serves me.' (John 12.24-26)

Facing his own costly self-sacrifice, he knew that it was going to be God's way to bring life to all who respond in faith -  a plentiful harvest of new lives. And he calls us to do the same. Living for others is deep in the very heart and character of God. So we need to be filled again with this fuel, so that we can live the Jesus life for the sake of others. This week is a god time to be filled again.

Best wishes,

Richard