Obvious

20 September 2004
Obvious
 
It would seem obvious that people would and could see the obvious but frequently it isn’t.  Far too often one is blind to what is directly in the path ahead.  Unless someone has the courage to help you see there is little hope.
 
In hindsight the facts are so clear, yet in the moment when I received the message things were far from obvious.  An important client wasn’t where he was supposed to be.  Changing my schedule would create a series of rescheduling, explaining, and conversations so I sat over a breakfast of waffles and fresh berries pondering the alternatives.  I remember being puzzled and at peace in the same moment.  It was a bright, sunny morning.  The email and text messages from home said everything was on track there.  Other than this crisis I couldn’t see any particular problem catching me off guard.  But what could or should I do?
 
The blunt question from a friend set the scene in its proper context.  “As I understand it, your biggest client, the one that is generating a serious headache for your boss, is willing to meet you at a certain time.  Your schedule might change to accommodate this opportunity.”
 
As the words became sounds my mind already knew the answer as it reflected my values and priorities.  It was obvious.  It was extremely clear.  It was very plain.  What were the questions I was pondering just few seconds ago?
 
John captures a statement that is an obvious question for me this morning.  “‘If God was your father,’ said Jesus, ‘you would love me, for I came from God and arrived here.  I didn't come on my own.  He sent me.’”  (John 8.42)
 
Choices often seem difficult.  Alternatives can appear confusing and problematic.  What happens today may seem out of our hands.  In one moment a friend asks a question and everything finds its place, a decision is made, and an opportunity seized. 
 
“As I see it, God is offering you a fresh start with total freedom and unlimited help.  The Spirit is here, it’s decision time.