I do not know why I continued to be surprised. God works each day of our lives in real and tangible ways. Just yesterday for example…
Walking out the door, I had an “impression” that I should take a copy of the “Message” to a friend. I did not know if she already had a copy and I was not completely sure I would see her that morning, but the lingering thought would not go away. We caught up on the street two blocks from the Elliot School. As we quickly talked, I walked out on the limb and explained the book was for her. Much to my surprise, it turned out that the Message interpretation of a verse was a missing piece to her Pub talk in Putney later that day. To Emma the touch of God proved pivotal in a time of fresh uncertainty.
Following the thought process of a teenager is very difficult for anyone over the age of 18. Given that I am well north of that mark, I frequently find myself introduced in new ways to my oldest daughter. My struggle to participate in her life continues to take interesting turns. The latest twist is the power of just listening. When I do, I discover that her needs and dreams are variations on my own. The differences and conflicts appear to have more to do with her view of reality than a desire to be different, strange, of independent. Her drive is one to find acceptance, love, and grace; always in short supply. As I listen, I find myself wearing God’s shoes in my own life with the same opportunities to make a difference and support the journey.
What I know with my head always surprises my heart. “We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that he has already thrown open his door to us. We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand – out in the wide open spaces of God’s grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise.” (Romans 5.2)
