Away We Go!

There is always excitement in taking a trip.  Going somewhere to see friends and make new friends.  Oh, and the car ride to the destination gives time to listen to music, stories, and conversation.  You see God’s handiwork in the interesting nature that glides by. You may even may get to take a nap if you are not driving. 

We took a short four hour trip over the weekend.  We were at a gathering of our network churches.  We had great music, good messages, and precious time with friends we see once a year.  Then there was good imoni, a potato soup that is so good.  There was time for discussion over dinner.  It was a fun-filled time with God’s family.  

The rub for me always comes when I must sleep at night.  My parents and I headed to our room, and I was tired.  I even slept a little bit at first.  Then I woke up and I could not sleep. I kept my parents awake, even though I did not want to do so. The more I tried to sleep, the worse it got.  I was excited about the next day’s activities.  I could not wait.  Of course the next day I was so tired that I could not really enjoy the activities.

The moral of this story is to rest in the Lord at all times, even on a trip.  Even when you are excited, or eat different food, or are in a strange bed it is always best to rest in the Lord. 

Imoni

The Winding Road of Change

Where I live it is autumn.  Autumn here is usually warm weather, cool nights, and a busy schedule.  It means we plan for Christmas ministry events so we can take the Gospel to as many as possible at a time of higher interest in Jesus.  I sometimes find it all overwhelming.  I thrive on routine and sameness, not change.  Change takes more effort.  I have to think more to navigate the torturous winding road of change.  I prefer to be lazy and float along on the same path, in the same rut.  Now that is neither healthy, nor scriptural. The Bible commands me to put the old behind me and press on to the higher calling.  I have to scold myself and say, “Wake up Jeffrey!  Reach for new exciting horizons.  Do not fight it, but embrace it.  See the thrilling surprises God has prepared for you.”  He has prepared beauty for me. He has prepared cool days for me.  He has prepared me to minister this season.   God says to me, “Do not be afraid.  I, your Creator God, have made this change, this autumn, for you.  Trust Me!  I am worthy.”  Hmmm, I wonder what is around that next corner.