It is easy to listen to words in scripture without living out what the words really call for. After all, doing what scripture tells us to do requires something of us, whether it’s our time, our resources, or even our lives. We can read the words, “Love your enemies.” But when we see someone talking about us or treating us poorly, we quickly seek retribution and justice. When we read the words, “Take up your cross daily,” we don’t readily consider putting our lives on the line for the gospel. And when we read, “If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well,” we’re not likely to follow through.
So, what is it that keeps us from doing what scripture asks of us? I think there are two stumbling blocks for us to consider: fear and busyness. It’s easy to come up with excuses that prevent us from doing what we ought to do. But often — in truth — we’re just talking ourselves out of doing something that scares us. Even in our current COVID-19 world of quarantine and staying home, we are not immune to busyness. Often it is our busyness that prevents us from listening, hearing, and acting on the subtle nudges from the Holy Spirit.