Wednesday, February 28, 2001
Wednesday, February 28, 2001
Therefore I do my best always to have a clear conscience toward God and all
people.
I remember reading about Winston Lloyd who was an aide to Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.
One day he brought to Kissinger a long-awaited report on conflicts in South America.
Without even glancing at the report, Kissinger asked, "Is this the very best you can do?"
Doing our best is all God asks of us. We are not saved by the things we do. Our faith is the
important key in our commitment to God. However, what we do says a lot about how committed
we are to serving God.
(Acts 24:16
NRSV)
Our theme for the day comes from words spoken about Jesus. After he had taught and after he
had healed, the people said, "He has done everything well; he even makes the deaf to hear and the
mute to speak." What more can anybody ask of us than to do our best?
Lloyd stammered for a few moments and said, "There were a few informational gaps."
"Take it back," Kissinger said and dismissed him.
Two weeks later, after working night and day, Lloyd again entered Kissinger's office and held out
the report.
"Is this the very best you can do?" Kissinger asked, without looking at the document.
Lloyd hesitated and admitted that there were some parts of the report that were incomplete.
Kissinger told him to take it back. Three weeks later Lloyd asked for another meeting.
For the third time Kissinger asked, "Is this the very best you can do?"
Lloyd replied, "Mr. Secretary, this is my very best effort."
Kissinger smiled and said, "That's all I ever ask. I'll be happy to read your report."
Dear God, show me the way to serve you with my best. Amen.
 Vote for this site! |
 Newsletter Sign Up! |
|---|