Much of life is like walking a blind alley without lights. You wander along, semi-clueless, unsure of where the current road is heading or will end up. Each step is an act of faith, groping one’s way along the walls, trying to make sure you do not stumble. It is not that life is bad, quite the contrary! If one relaxes, the journey is exciting, changing, and challenging. However, one’s fear and uncertainty is never far from the surface.
I remember the days of my youth; full of confidence and fear in equal measure. I was often in love, but my relationships seemed fleeting at best. Each step came after careful thought and aggressive action. I wonder if I had any clue of where I was going. As a parent with children, I have lost this illusion. I know I am clueless, however that does not prevent my efforts to deny the reality of the walk. I act with confidence, giving the impression that everything is clear ahead. It is quite extraordinary how confident one can be given the lack of details and future sight.
As I talk with others about their journeys, I find many are on the same walk. Sitting with friends, I found their anguish and pain difficult to handle. There is little one can do to prevent or avoid the touch of life’s bullets.
Today, in the middle of much confusion and decision points, I hold on to Solomon’s observation. “Wherever you walk, they’ll [your mother’s teaching] guide you; whenever you rest, they’ll guide you; when you wake up, they’ll tell you what’s next.” (Proverbs 6.22) God offers to be with us as well as give us the courage and strength to respond. I rest in the confidence that God knows what might happen and has my best interests at heart. Without this, I am truly blind. With this, we are never blind, even though our doubts will often tell us otherwise.
Today decisions will be made and fears confronted. God’s grace and love is with you. Take his hand and see.
