• Notice the everyday fine things of life all around us • Our surroundings affect us in many ways • Small experiences can add up to big challenges • Life’s happenings carry our thoughts and feelings • Be in prayer when encountering caustic influences • Negative self-focused inactivity can breed discontent • Regular cleaning of harmful particles is helpful • As wind blows, intention moves us forward to clear the air • Disuse and disinterest may result in loss of skills and potential • Be aware of how accumulated hurts and trauma affect relationships • Positive pauses and stillness can bring relief and rest • Wisdom grows from built up experience • Allow wisdom to lift, heal, and encourage others • God cleans the accumulated “dust” from our souls
From “Reflections from the Everyday” Charlotte-Anne Allen
“Stop here. Now, back slowly. Turn the steering wheel just so… and now into the spot between the two cars… Got it!”
I recall the time, many years ago now, when I took driver’s ed in high school and had to learn to parallel park. It was a bit of a challenge at first. Steering the car just so took some practice… Perhaps you can relate.
I saw a sign recently that read, “Make God your steering wheel…” That same day, I heard on the radio, “Steering is easier when you are in motion. It’s harder to turn the steering wheel when sitting still.” That got me to thinking.
When we ask someone to “steer me in the right direction” we are asking which way to go to find something or for help in making a right decision. A prayer in the book of Psalms says, “Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.* James used illustrations about bits in the mouths of horses to turn them and large ships driven by strong winds yet steered by a small rudder.*
It may seem obvious, but steering requires movement. Moving involves taking steps and making decisions. How many goals, dreams, or calls have I had but have felt too distracted, insecure, or weak to persevere and pursue them?
Like parallel parking it may take some practice and work to move. Prayer and trusting God to do the steering and to show us the right way helps us move forward one step at a time. There are some things that I’ve had to set to the side for a while but there are good things in their place for now… and that’s a thought for another day.
My prayer for us all is that we will trust God to show us His way and that we will trust Him to do the steering. Ever willing, ever moving. Be encouraged and celebrate the small steps.
Did you have a blanket or toy you were attached to when you were a child? I remember the Raggedy Ann doll that my mother made for me. I loved that doll and the comfort it gave me! One summer I took it with me on a trip to my grandparents’ home and was quite concerned until my youngest cousin returned it after carrying it around for a while.
Whether it’s a cozy blanket, special toy, the company of others, or perhaps a special place or person… those sources of comfort stick to our memory, don’t they? Comfort is something we crave from birth, turning toward the source of nourishment and security. I think of newborn Jesus comforted by his mother, wrapped in warm cloths, cradled in her arms, and laid in the security of the manger. I imagine Joseph caring for them both and the light of God’s presence there with them. Can’t you just see that in your mind?!
Think of how Jesus was a source of comfort and healing during his time on earth. Before he was taken back up, Jesus told his disciples that God would send an Advocate or Comforter, the Holy Spirit, to them (John 14:26-27). We are not alone. Then Paul talked about the “God of all comfort”. I love how he went on to say that God “comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” Comfort is something that we share with others, whether it be through words, actions, or simple presence and support.
As you cherish your times of comfort or see a child with their comforting “blankie,” be encouraged. May you in turn reach out to others to offer your own comfort. What a better world this would be if we could be more intentional in doing that. I’m so thankful for God, who both challenges and comforts us.
• Smell the sweet, the rank, the rich variety of each day • Contentment is a choice to be pursued and adopted • Life is full when surrounded by companions amid the messes • Warmth and security emanate from care and craft • Prepare and lay down what is needed for daily tasks • Work together and receive instruction and assistance humbly • Dedicated labor brings care and satisfaction • Build strongly and wisely • Home is shelter and a quiet place to curl up • Caring for needs fortifies and feeds minds and bodies • Give thanks for warm dry shelter • We are all part of a rich stew – sheep, donkey, horse, cow, cat, dog… • The seemingly lowest of places can give birth to the greatest of light • See the Light that pierces through the dust and grime of life
From “Reflections from the Everyday” Charlotte-Anne Allen
