John Newton, the blasphemous slave-trader turned tenderhearted pastor, knew what it was like to live in a state of constant interruption:
I have seldom one-hour free from interruption. Letters, that must be answered, visitants that must be received, business that must be attended to. I have a good many sheep and lambs to look after, sick and afflicted souls dear to the Lord; and therefore, whatever stands still, these must not be neglected.
And he also knew that interruptions are not threats to peace but opportunities for ministry:
When I hear a knock at my study door, I hear a message from God. It may be a lesson of instruction; perhaps a lesson of patience: but, since it is his message, it must be interesting.
Quoted in Richard Cecil, John Newton, ed. by Marylynn Rousse (Christian Focus, 2000), p. 139 (first quote), p. 76 (second quote).
HT: JP
