Plans

Watching something executed perfectly is an experience in itself.  It really doesn’t matter what the forum; sports, art, project plans, dinner, or even conversations.  It is as if everything knows where it needs to be, slots into it, and waits for the magic.  Even when one understands the process, the experience is beautiful.  Yet knowing the process, understanding the steps, and being enthralled doesn’t change what doesn’t need or want to be there.  As with much in life, bad stuff happens.
 
I worry about plans and bad stuff.  I carry a hope that everything bad can be prevented, rescued, or salvaged.  In my outlook I work to include those who might be excluded in the hope that they can one day be part of the winning side.  There is a balance.  It’s not always easy to find, ride, and manage that edge.  The problem comes with others choices and decisions.  When should I stop and let their roads begin or continue? 
 
As I enjoy my favorite football team, Chelsea, win, I am struck by a common chord which binds the team together; respect.  When there is mutual respect everything flows.  Backs come to the front and contribute when there are opportunities.  Forwards can be found playing defense when the team is under severe attack.  Everyone is contributing in his way.  The mutual confidence is out on display for all to see!  Mistakes happen.  Yet it is the space for others to make mistakes that gives the team the opportunity to be a team.
 
Jesus had what seemed to be an odd reaction.  Things were not totally wonderful in his inner circle.  It seems he understood the choices at hand.  He knew some were at risk.  Having done all he could he observed that “I'm not including all of you in this.  I know precisely whom I've selected, so as not to interfere with the fulfillment of this Scripture: The one who ate bread at my table turned on his heel against me.”  (John 13.18) 
 
Plans and choices are life’s dance with God.  Let the party continue.