If you are anything like me, you know what you’ll be doing and when. Planning wisely is key, and executing a plan on schedule is vital.
Experiencing the Unexpected
Yesterday I pulled into a gas station to refuel my SUV. I pushed the button in the cabin to open the fuel door, exited my vehicle, and noticed the door had not opened. I leaned back into my vehicle, pushed the button a second time, heard the sound I assumed was the door opening. Unfortunately while my actions had been correct and the sound had been as expected, the result was failure: the fuel door remained closed.
Thankfully I had enough fuel to reach the dealership, and they had the needed expertise to diagnose and resolve the problem.
So What?
Prior to this experience, if someone had asked me to list all of the reasons I might be unable to do as I’d planned for a given day I would have never listed lack of access to the gas tank of my vehicle. I had always assumed I’d be able to gain access, and add fuel as needed.
Over the last eleven months, pandemic living has taught me to expect the unexpected in all areas of life. As I reflect on yesterday’s minor setback, I’m suddenly quite aware that similar blind spots exist in my faith life.
I recognize that without fuel, I cannot operate. And, yet, I often take for granted that spiritual fuel will be readily available and that I’ll be an open vessel ready to receive such nourishment.
Prayer
Alpha and Omega, God of beginnings and endings and in-betweens, help me to know where I am on my journey. And, help me to recognize the gift of this leg of my journey – whether I’m stranded, moving slowly, or advancing at a record pace. At all times and places, grant me the wisdom to know how to live well in the present, and remind me that nothing – not fuel doors, not humanly constructed rules or regulations, not unplanned detours in my day – can separate me from the fuel I need most, your unconditional love. Amen.