the greenest grass around

How did I not see this coming?

The short answer: This is real life and not a greek tragedy in the 80s amination…

Yes, “How did I now see this coming?” has popped into my head a few times. I realize it is not a rational question, but when you are grieving, not all of your thoughts are.

And yes, in my mind (typical of an 80s child), I envision a cartoon animation of a happy family, then a cut screen to Hades with his minions discussing an evil scheme to ruin lives. (Think Skeletor or Hades from Hercules).

But I still sometimes think there should have been Earth trimmers or some foreshadowing event that the “reader” saw coming. Even as I think about this, I know that I’m not the reader or child happily watching cartoons and seeing the events about to unfold. Unfortunately, I am one of the main characters in my life. I do not get a glimpse into the future or predict based on foreshadowing in a plot. Each of us lives as clueless as Aladdin stepping into the Cave of Wonders. Well, maybe more like Indiana Jones going exploring. We know that challenges will arise, like Indy. But we don’t know what they are or how we will overcome those challenges.

Even though Indiana Jones uses his unprecedented skills, resourcefulness, and a good bit of luck to get out of his issues, we have something even better. We have a God who directs our path and calls his children by name.

My pastor likes to say, “God knew this yesterday.” God is the author of our story. He knows all plot twists and characters before we have an inkling. When I read, I love a good plot twist. If a book can surprise me, I usually think it’s pretty good. But that is not what I want in life. Everyone wants to plan their lives and go from point A to point B with no speed bumps, detours, or (God forbid) traffic accidents. That is what we want but not always what God has planned. God allows those speed bumps, detours, and even accidents to mold us into the person God intended us to be. We are all called for His purpose, and sometimes he has to prepare us for that purpose.

I love this quote I found. “As the Author, God is in complete control of our lives. He knows the beginning, and He knows how it’s going to end. He knows what needs to be placed in our lives to untangle that knot of sin inside us, to make us more like His Son. He brings other people (characters) alongside us. Some of these people help us on our journey, while others try to hinder us. But God provides a way for us to stay on the right path.” (Busse, Enclave) This could not be more true.

As I reflect on the past couple of years. I can vividly see where God was preparing us, putting people in our lives, and thankfully, providing us with precious memories. Although I cannot see the plot twist coming, I trust the next chapter because I know the author.

Lord, I pray that each of us trusts in you. You promised us hope and a future for your children. Help us trust you for that. I pray that we are not shaken when speed bumps and detours come our way because we have a firm foundation in you. Allow us to find comfort in your heavenly arms. Guide us in your ways and direction for our lives. Open our hearts and minds to your presence and help us to glorify your name through all these things. Amen