Fifteen years ago, maybe sixteen years ago, my father and I unpacked this table saw and began to assemble it in California. At the time, we could not imagine the future and how everything would play out. We enjoyed each other’s company as we worked and collaborated on my new shop. More than a decade later, the location has changed, the process begins again, and I am left with my memories as my guide to what I could do next in the reconstruction process.
With a custom solution at the time, there are no instructions to rely on now. On what hand, I have no idea. On the other hand, I intuitively know the next step I will take and the reason for it. It appears Life is giving me a real-time play on an old writer’s instruction left centuries ago; “Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed – that exhilarating finish in and with God – he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God.” (Hebrews 12.2)
Life’s journey is composed of steps. Milestones and destinations are best seen as the sum of our steps. With the table saw reconstruction, I struggled to remember the specifics of that day long ago in California. I do recall the feeling I had of being with my dad. As I let go of the big question, I focused on the step that I needed to take next. It was a wonderful moment of letting go, listening to what I think he would remind me of now, and stepping out on my own. With the first few steps, I found myself doubting more than ever. The endurance of yesterday is paying dividends today. The job is not yet complete. I can imagine my journey, and more importantly, I know my next step.
Thank you, father. Our time, then, is making a difference.
