The Donkey (and other loans)

As he [Jesus] approached Bethpage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a [donkey’s] colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ tell him, ‘The Lord needs it.’“ Those who were sent ahead went and found it just as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, “Why are you untying the colt?” They replied, “The Lord needs it.”

– Luke 19:29-34 (NIV)

I have a note in my Bible that indicates that the phrase “The Lord needs it,” used twice in the verses above, could also be translated “The Lord of it has need.” This perspective struck me as an interesting and appropriate way to view this request from Jesus.

Max Lucado made an insightful application of this seemingly minor event: Each of us has something – maybe not a donkey, but a talent, time, resources, prayer – that, when placed in God’s hands, can move His kingdom down the road.

Aren’t abilities, time, resources, even prayer, all gifts on loan to us from God to be used to help others along their journey of faith in God? It is my hope and prayer that God will use my writing and photography in this way.