Good is the Enemy of the Best

Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, "It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word." (Acts 6:1-4)

The early Church was expanding fast. As with any growing organization, administration issues needed to be sorted out. In this case, the widows were being neglected. Now, giving food to the widows was a good thing. So did the Apostles stick with that? No! They exactly knew what they had been called for. They exactly knew their purpose in life - to spread the Gospel. They gave their time to the best thing – the Word and Prayer and delegated their responsibilities or rather sought someone who could do it for them.

What was the result of this decision? "The Word of God kept on spreading; and the number of disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith." (Acts 6:7 NASB). Are good things keeping you from the best things? Remember, good things are the enemy of the best things.

A lighthouse keeper used to get a new supply of oil every month to keep the light burning in the lighthouse. One night, a poor woman asked him for some oil. In this manner, someone or the other came with requests for oil. Since all the requests seemed good and legitimate, the lighthouse keeper never turned down anyone and gave everyone the oil.

One evening there was hardly any oil left, and by night it was all gone. That night several ships were wrecked and many lives were lost. When the authorities investigated the case, the man said he was sorry but kept saying, 'I did good things with that oil.' Do you know what the chief judge replied? "You were given the oil for one purpose – to keep that light burning. You failed."

What is your calling? Are you fulfilling your call, or are you doing something just because you have to do something? What is your purpose in this life – only living? Even the dogs and cats are living. Surely there must be a bigger purpose.

Lord Jesus said, "But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:42)

One thing I desire of You, Lord that You give me the grace to seek You all the days of my life, to behold Your beauty and to inquire in Your temple. In Jesus' Name. Amen.