Late Start (09/30/2024)

This morning, I got a bit of a late start because last night was a rough night. And when I finally got back to sleep after an acid reflux episode, I guess my body felt it needed extra TLC. Sorry. When one breaks out of her rut, it can be rough going for the first few miles. But the good news is that out of my rut, I discovered all sorts of things I probably would not have seen from my normal perch. Sometimes detours are a blessing in disguise.

The LORD does write straight with crooked lines. I’m not always sure if my guardian angel is “herding” me or if the LORD is simply putting the unexpected in my path. Perhaps they are working as a team. As I sat on my porch this beautiful fall day, instead of watching the sun rise as I normally do, I was treated to the spectacle of the early morning sun rays coming through the trees and illuminating my neighborhood is a hallowed and awesome way. And I was reminded all over again of what the LORD has created, and I gave Him thanks as I sat and took in the beauty.

And from that spot I remembered that I, too, am created by the LORD. I sat full of love for my Creator and LORD for quite some time; I’m old, so I had a lot of “thanks” to give.

And while I was aware of the lateness of the hour and that I was behind in my list of tasks to tackle, I found myself sitting a bit longer with the LORD this morning. I wanted to share with the LORD my concerns for so many others. It’s not that the LORD doesn’t already know; it’s that I am a firm believer in intercessory prayer.

This morning as I brought my concerns to the LORD remembering Mary’s intercessory prayer that prompted Jesus’ first miracle, even though that wasn’t His plan at that moment. And I also remembered her words to the servants: “Do whatever He tells you.” And as I brought my loving concerns to Him, I listened. What would He have me do? I trust in the LORD’s response to my prayer, but I also understand how key Mary’s instructions are, too. Often the LORD’s response involves us.

And finally, I realized, that this would be the point of my blog this morning. Suddenly, I knew what I was supposed to write. He did it again; He wrote straight with crooked lines.

So many times in my life, the LORD’s path was not my “preferred route.” But I am grateful for the detour. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found myself somewhere I hadn’t planned to be or at a time I didn’t choose only to discover a reason, something I was to find, someone I was to companion, a need that demanded attention, another that needed a shoulder, an open ear, and the ability to respond lovingly.

So, this day, as we go about our way, seeking to follow closely in the footsteps of our LORD, Jesus Christ, let us not be surprised if He leads us on a detour we wouldn’t have chosen. He has His ways.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.