In this season, “more” of God is no longer optional—it’s essential. With the rising challenges we face, we urgently need more of God’s presence to sustain us emotionally, spiritually, and communally. This message is about embracing the interruptions God sends, opening the door for Him to work through us, and responding to His call for transformative ministry by joining a church in Cleveland, OH.

The Enemy at the Gate: A Call for Boldness and Presence

As tragedy and suffering increase, our first response might be grief and questions. But as we face spiritual battles, we must ask for “more” of God—not as a luxury, but as vital sustenance. In Acts 4, Peter and John prayed for boldness to declare the gospel and for God’s powerful presence. This prayer is not just for the early church; it’s our prayer today—boldness to proclaim Jesus and a deep, transformative presence of God in our lives.

Luke 10: Exposing Our Identity Problem

In Luke 10, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan to challenge our view of holiness. The religious leaders ignored the wounded man, while the Samaritan—despised and unlikely—showed mercy. Holiness isn’t about avoiding discomfort; it’s about presence and compassion. Jesus calls us to love our neighbors by stepping into their needs, not avoiding them.

The Ministry of Inconvenience: Incarnational Ministry in Action

The ministry of inconvenience is about showing up with God’s presence, even when it disrupts our plans. Incarnational ministry means being available to others—walking with people, showing mercy, and sacrificing comfort for restoration. It’s not about perfect programs or strategies; it’s about creating margin in our lives to respond to God’s leading.

What Ministry of Inconvenience Looks Like

  • Choosing presence over productivity: Take time to listen, even when your to-do list is long.
  • Sacrificial giving: Be financially flexible to help others without expecting anything in return.
  • Following through: Go beyond initial gestures—show commitment and care.

The Surprising Engine of Miracles: Interruptions

Jesus’ ministry was often interrupted—21 of His 37 miracles were unplanned encounters. This teaches us an important lesson: if we’re too busy or rigid in our planning, we’ll miss divine moments. Are we willing to be interrupted by God, or are we so scheduled that we eliminate opportunities for Him to move?

Data: People Are Open to Spiritual Conversations

Recent studies show that 74% of adults are interested in spiritual growth, and 44% are more open to spiritual conversations than before the pandemic. People are curious about God, but they need our presence, not just information. We must be interruptible, available, and ready to engage in honest, personal conversations.

Practical Steps to Cultivate Margin and Be Interruptible

  1. Time: Schedule open slots in your calendar to be available for the unexpected.
  2. Talent: Serve with presence, not performance. Be ready to listen and help, not just fix.
  3. Treasure: Build a blessing fund to meet immediate needs in your community.

How to Start Today

  • Block one open time slot in your week for God’s interruptions.
  • Set aside a small fund to bless someone in need.
  • Commit to one act of inconvenient kindness.

Join Friends Church in Cleveland, OH

We need more of God’s presence in our lives to meet the growing challenges around us. As we embrace the ministry of inconvenience—making margin for God’s interruptions—we’ll witness transformation in our lives and others. Let’s step into the messy, costly work of being present and available for God’s Kingdom. This is where true transformation happens. At Friends Church in Willoughby, Ohio, you’ll feel like one of the family. Discover more about our services, programs, and offerings by contacting us today!