“So what’s the plan?”
Over the past few weeks, each of our kids has asked us this.
We’re moving again.
Packing up. Saying good-bye to friends.
A change of plan, the unexpected.
We didn’t see it coming.
I’m glad nothing takes God by surprise.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55.8-9)
His plan is always about SO MUCH MORE than the obvious.
… while the obvious is often SO MUCH MORE than we think we can handle!
Mary had a plan.
She was engaged to marry Joseph. She probably hoped that they’d have children …. some day … after they were married.
In a moment, her plan changed.
Joseph had a plan.
Having asked Mary to be his wife, he was anticipating their marriage and probably hoped to … some day … have a family with her.
In a moment, his plan changed.
The shepherds probably had a plan that cold wintry night… or at least an idea of where they’d pasture their sheep for the next couple of days.
In a moment, their plan changed.
The kingdom of heaven broke forth into their lives in a profound way.
They saw. They listened.
They relinquished their plan. And submitted to God’s.
IN FAITH they trusted Him.
Was it worth it?
Yielding. Not being the plan-maker. Following an unfamiliar path. Vulnerably facing predictable and unpredictable challenges….
Mary and Joseph became the earthly parents of JESUS, THE SON OF GOD.
The shepherds met THE GOOD SHEPHERD.
Lord God, before I begin each day, help me lay my plan at your feet.
Every day, help me seek, recognize, and welcome Your kingdom breaking in to my life.
Help me yield, follow, and trust You IN FAITH.
Amen.
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