turn aside

One of the most famous stories in the Old Testament is that of Moses and the burning bush.  It has been featured in movies and is a common idea we discuss as we are looking for a "sign" from God. We often joke about wishing we had a burning bush type sign. But as I was reading that story once, I noticed a phrase in the text that I hadn't seen before.  In Exodus 3:3 Moses says (in the King James version), "I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt."

It occurred to me that Moses could not have turned aside.  He could have kept going.  He was busy after all, tending his flocks.  To take his eyes off his sheep was to put them in danger, so he might have just kept going about his business without bothering to go see this bush that didn't burn.  

I wonder how often we miss some great opportunity because we don't stop and turn aside. Maybe we keep going when we see a stranger in need of help.  Maybe we ignore the child who is hurt on the playground.  Maybe we forget to check on a loved one.  Maybe we miss our burning bush moments because we are too busy, too focused, too selfish or just too distracted.

Keep your eyes open.  It might not be a burning bush, but it might be an opportunity from the Lord if you just keep your eyes open and be ready to turn aside.

In Christ,
Pastor Scott