No man having put his hand to the plow and looking back is fit for the kingdom of God, Luke 10:62

God wants us all in. He needs laborers who are dedicated to the work, eyes forward, focused, and set on the kingdom ahead. Yet so many of us are like a plowman who keeps looking behind, distracted by the mess and the worries of the world.

My husband is a farmer and he takes great pride in straight rows and well-planted fields. Irrigation, as well as weed and pest control are much more effective when the rows are lined up so all equipment can pass through easily. Some of the success of the crop begins with a sharp focus at the beginning of spring. If he is distracted, looking behind, its much harder to keep the tractor lined up perfectly.

As a busy mom, wife, and teacher, I, too, can allow the distractions around me to keep me from doing my best work. How many times a day do I let my mind wander into what should have been or what could possibly be instead of focusing right on the relationships and work in front of me? How many times do I use my phone or computer as a distraction to avoid dealing with a problem staring me in the face? And how many opportunities for Kingdom work do I miss because I am peering into the past, mulling over regrets instead of peering forward, seeking God’s next assignment?

Christ’s words are are urgent because God’s work is urgent, and discipleship comes at great cost. Yet there is no greater joy than laboring for eternity. But only the unwavering worker, who has set his face forward, is worthy of the Master’s praise.

So as we move into spring, a season of plowing and planting and creating beautiful straight rows, let us reflect not on what is behind, but on what is ahead.

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth, 2 Timothy 2:15