People yearn for order, consistency, and smooth sailing. I often whimper, longing for easy predictions, plenty of constants, and no conflicts. Usually, just when I think things are going to settle down, odd turns, twists, and bizarre conversations refocus me on the values and priorities that I hold most precious; as a result nothing is easy, little is constant, and confusion reigns! It is as if a higher power is forcing me through odd turns to keep me on course.
I could say I am an exception; it doesn’t look like that. People continue to die because armies face short supplies. People suffer because the very people who think they are there to help actually don’t. Children wonder if life is worth living because the two sources of stability, comfort, and nurture often exploit, abuse, and abandon. Life is pretty odd and grim, even when you try hold on to the beauty with both hands.
In the chaos I find two consistencies. The first lies in the way that Divinity uses what happens to pull you and I towards the Source of compassion, mercy, and love. At times it seems strange questions land in our lap. John’s record is a variation on the theme but it isn’t as odd as it seems.
“Go call your husband and then come back.”
“I have no husband,” she said.
“That's nicely put: ‘I have no husband.’ You've had five husbands, and the man you're living with now isn't even your husband. You spoke the truth there, sure enough.” (John 4.16-18)
Life’s odd turns are often God’s way of reminding us of the very values and priorities that we struggle to keep in our safe.
The second twist is how we respond to the odd turns, pulls, and situations. Some run away from the questions. Others give me courage because they see through the chaos into the opportunity. It is these moments that you and I can find hope realized. I know that these seem, well odd, but flow with it! God is working on your heart and mine.
