I am a scheduler, and sometimes I neglect to leave room for the unexpected. Today I am moving slowly because of allergies (delay). Now I am rushing to complete grocery store errands to make it home for a conference call. Glancing at the three stores on my list, I realize there is no room for a delay.
I arrive at the first grocery store and run into a lady with a free-flowing spirit and beautifully decorated bell-bottom jeans. I complimented her on the jeans, and she explained in great detail that she designed them. Not wanting to be rude, I reluctantly chatted (delay). We discussed her artistry and the fact that she desires to publish a book of her artistic works but is not sure how to start. I shared that I am an author and that the best way to start a project is to arrange her works, go on Facebook and join an author’s group for insight and encouragement, and I shared my number with her for support.
She then asked if I was a woman of God, and I said yes. She spoke an unexpected word about God’s timing. He’s never late, and God supplies what He calls us to do. Advising me to relax, be patient, and enjoy the manifestation of God. And that the book now has a ripe audience, and I am healed for effective delivery of the message. It was a truly God-ordained, encouraging moment that I almost missed.
As I reflected on my near miss, a few more occasions came to mind. I have run into people at the most inconvenient times for me, but right on time for them. Being able to bless an old friend with a meal, as they discovered, their check wasn’t showing in their balance. Or assisting an obviously ill person who others bypassed. Realizing a car stalled, I turned on my flashers until the police arrived. As a Christian, it’s my duty to show love to those around me when it’s convenient, but also when it’s not. Therefore, I will not fret delays and reroutes. I don’t want my annoyance with delays and reroutes to cause me to miss a blessing, nor the opportunity to be a blessing.
Categories: L L McAdoo Straight From The Heart
