Interruptions and New Assignments
The Wrinkle in Our Plans
Kicking off the week is always an exciting time for me. Sunday nights are when the weekend winds down, and preparation mode kicks in. I start mapping out the week ahead—goals, meetings, to-dos.
Monday mornings come early. By noon, our team has already reviewed past performances, evaluated upcoming priorities, and aligned on the communications needed for our partners and clients. It’s a fun rhythm. Everyone’s locked in, ready to execute their assignments.
But every now and then, a wrinkle shows up. Something we didn’t plan for. A curveball that demands our attention—personally or professionally.
This week for my family, it came in the form of a sick second grader who needed care, comfort, and time. No matter how much we plan or prepare, life has a way of handing us a new assignment. Sometimes, that new thing becomes the main thing.
Jesus Interrupted (Mark 5:21–43)
I’m reminded of how Jesus handled moments like this.
In Mark 5, Jesus had just crossed the sea when Jairus, a synagogue leader, approached Him, urgently begging Him to come heal his dying daughter. Jesus agreed and set out immediately. The mission was clear, time was critical.
But then...an interruption. A woman, who had been bleeding for 12 years, quietly touched the edge of His cloak in the crowd. She believed that one touch could heal her. And it did.
Now, Jesus could’ve kept walking. The healing already happened. But He stopped. “Who touched Me?” He asked. His disciples were baffled. People were pressing in everywhere.
Still, Jesus waited. The woman came forward trembling, and Jesus said, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.”
That moment wasn’t just about physical healing. It was about seeing her, affirming her, and restoring her fully in body, soul, and dignity.
And while it looked like Jairus’ daughter had died during the delay, Jesus still went and raised her from the dead.
What can we learn from Jesus?
Jesus wasn't rushed, even on a critical mission.
The interruption was just as important as the destination.
When led by compassion, we make time for people—not just plans.
God’s timing may feel inconvenient, but it’s never wrong.
So wherever today finds you - executing flawlessly or already off track - be ready for the unexpected. That side conversation, that minor disruption, that detour—it might not be the thing you planned for...
But it just might be the main assignment.
Today, for me and my son, I know that’s exactly what it was.
-Mark
