A robo call is defined as: usually an automated call regarding a political party or telemarketing.  I know that I am not the only one to receive what I refer to as “bothersome” calls. They are so annoying and when they first began, seemed to always be ringing and interrupting us during dinner.  Now, those calls have escalated to messages, voicemails and multiple different number sources, all phony.  I have an app on my phone that tracks these and stops them from calling again, but alas, more numbers take their place.  Sigh!

Did Jesus ever feel bothered or suffer from nuisances or even phony impositions? The answer is yes!  When I’m being bothered by the robo calls, I steam, spew upset at the aggravation and seek ways to quickly eliminate the number.  Jesus, when encountering a phony, or a nuisance, instead would ask questions.  He would challenge the bothersome “robos” in his life. He did not spew venom at them, but rather encouraged discourse and did not steer clear of discussion.  He also had the ability to “just ignore” without “squirming” about the intrusiveness of the imposition. God’s will was His defense and He had the ability to say no if need be and not feel guilty for saying no. In a previous Sunday sermon, I was reminded of the Canaanite woman who pleaded for her daughter’s health to be restored. Jesus said, “No,” however was moved by her strong faith and relented with His flexibility.

How do I handle imposition?  Nuisances? The example of Robo calls is a perfect example because they interrupt so frequently.  I now practice not spewing my upset and ranting at the bothersome phonies who plague the phone system, but rather find myself chilling out and allowing the ringing to stop, then calmly add the annoying number to my app to be blocked and then dismiss the thoughts of annoyance.  This is such a minor example of how we can give ourselves to Jesus who loves us unconditionally and follow His lead for being able to say no without guilt, ignore when possible and be flexible if needed. Just chill and give your angst to Him, He’s got your number!

Jill