First Shall Be Last and the Last Shall Be First, Literally
I too have tried to explain what Jesus meant when He said, "the first shall be last.- While experience is not always the best teacher, sometimes it can be.
Last Monday I was checking in at the airport in Manila for my trip to New Zealand. Already checked-in online, departure card filled and queued on the Frequent Flier line, I was first while all the lines were all backed up.
The First Shall Be Last
When I got to the counter, the lady noticed a technicality with my visa and passport and needed to contact the New Zealand embassy before she could issue my boarding pass.
The technicality took "forever- to resolve. I was given a chair on the side of the counters and was asked to wait. It was one of those "first shall be last- moments.
Fortunately, I had my prayer cards with me. These are cards of people in my congregation and some friends whom I pray for. I started to pray and took note of a few whom I felt I needed to check on to find out how things were going with their prayer concerns, I texted them as I prayed.
By the time I realized it, over an hour had elapsed and the long lines were all but gone, I had literally become the last.
The Perks of Being Last
Since Immigration and security lines had tinned I went through quickly. Being last also has its minor perks.
Headed for the gate I got a text back from one of the men I prayed for. He apologized for not updating me that the Lord had healed his son. Then he said, "He is back to playing basketball again.- God still hears and answers our simplest of prayers.
A second text came from the businessman that read, "Please continue to pray for the deal, contracts are being reviewed.- Being late in the plane I had limited space to place my hand-carry luggage. The nice man I sat beside made room.
In our conversation I found out that his father was treating the family to an all expense paid vacation. It turns out his father was the CEO of the company that my businessman friend was closing a deal with. God has interesting surprises.
The Last Shall Be First
It was moment to learn that being last is to be first when we know that God is always with us, that He hears our prayers and knows every issue that surrounds us.
As the plane took off I closed my eyes and prayed for my long haul trip way down under. I thanked God for how good it feels to be last and yet feel first because I have full access to God with or without visa and passport.
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