The semi tractor-trailer continued drifting toward the center line on the two-lane highway. I assumed it was due to a gust of wind but when the driver failed to correct and continued well into my lane it was obviously time for an evasive maneuver. With the cat-like reflexes of a middle-aged man who was still feeling the effects of long day at work, I reacted in slow motion to this new threat and moved my car to the shoulder. Ever notice how debris or a pothole is usually waiting for you there? Well, I did not, as I was fully engaged in a one-sided conversation with the truck driver who appeared to be studying something in his lap.
I arrived home figuring I had something to talk about besides the routine monotony of the day; but instead, I was informed that my wife’s vehicle was making an unnatural and tormented squealing noise. A quick drive around the block confirmed that it was something more than just a belt. After making a plan to get help the next day I kicked off my shoes and went to the fridge for something cold. There was neither cold air nor cold contents inside the refrigerator. My thirst was seriously disappointed. I mumbled something about unplanned events come in three’s; note to self, don’t ever joke about that. Wondering if the air conditioner was next with the house becoming uncomfortably warm, I moved outside to a chair in the cooler evening air and grumbled about the sour milk and soupy ice cream.
We’ve all been there. Sometimes it feels like someone should blow a penalty whistle for piling on the bad news; we’ll take the fifteen yards and a do-over. We want to believe that the law of averages should kick in so that for all the things that weigh us down personally and professionally, there will be a little gravy to even it out. Call it an evening of the odds or a gimme; we just know that every once in a while we need a break.
As the stars were starting to appear my phone rang. A long-time friend greeted me with an uncharacteristically solemn tone. Sensing this was not a time to share the ridiculous events of the day, I said hey and listened. I was heartbroken to hear that his sister who, had been in remission valiantly fighting cancer, was now going into hospice. The lump in my throat made my voice crack when I tried to say how sorry I was. My friend was carrying a much greater burden than I could imagine; for within the past year he had also lost his mom and the year before his dad. I offered the best that I had; I told my buddy that he and his wife were in my prayers. My day suddenly didn’t seem so frustrating.
Sure, we all need a break from time to time. But let’s keep something in mind; the challenges to our day won’t necessarily be the same as someone else. We all have burdens to carry. We all have a journey to take. But we can take comfort in knowing our Creator won’t give us more than we can handle as He puts resources in our lives for us to use along the way. For believers in Christ, we walk with the Holy Spirit, our Advocate and Champion, and lean on scripture like that of the apostle Paul; whose letter to the believers at Philippi in Greece around AD 60 is still relevant today:
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
It will be okay; things have a way of working out.
“Three-minute exposure; a snapshot of life’s imperfect harmony,” by Stew McAuley.
Encouraging your Christian Worldview.
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