Brenda’s Blog – July 8, 2014
The Eisenhower Interstate System is under reconstruction – constantly and coast to coast.
The brilliance of a blacktop ribbon of road stretching across our country is a 1950s phenomenon. Connection, commerce, and communication resulted from the stream of autos flowing nationwide. I am a beneficiary of the cooperation between Detroit and DC.
But, on long days of travel the frequent (though friendly) signage which tells me forward progress is going to slow down draws a sigh. When I program my GPS at the outset, there is no provision for “Expect delays… road work ahead.” My GPS commentator doesn’t anticipate the young workers who turn from “Slow” to “Stop” just as I approach.
In our spiritual life we experience similar halts. Our God is constantly working on us to conform and transform. “Road work ahead” signs are a part of the normal, Christian life. In college, we felt “cool,” writing PBPGIFWMY… it was our own code. “Please Be Patient, God Isn’t Finished With Me Yet.” Sometimes it was a cover-up for immaturity; other times, it was a recognition of God’ powerful covering.
It was true then – and still is. God’s road crews are always at work – and we are the focus.
What have I learned about road work?
1) It is never convenient. It delays, it distracts, and it discomforts. God’s time isn’t ours – we are repaved at His good pleasure.
2) It isn’t optional. I can get off the highway and choose to travel another way, but I don’t have the choice of shutting down their work. I can fret under the hand of a good God who is working, but I cannot avoid His plan for me.
3) It is for the ultimate good, including mine. Wider lanes, refilled pot holes, straightened curves – all make travel safer. As I grow in faith, my usefulness to the community of faith increases. As He smoothes my rough spots, I can better serve Him.
4) It tests my attitude. When 75 mph changes to 45, I check my obedience quotient. How quickly do I react? How readily do I get into line? And, how kindly do I let others into line who thought they could “beat the system” by sneaking up on the inside? How eager am I to “give thanks in all things?”
5) It gives me food for thought. Dad said, “Never lose the good of a bad experience.” Road work certainly qualifies. When a road sign triggers a blog – that is a good thing. When reconstruction in my life gives me pause for reflection, it is productive. Seeing God’s hand in every circumstance gives life a lilt and a fullness that makes me smile.