Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8
Have you ever had your schedule all planned out just to have it changed? That was me on Saturday. The guys were going camping for the weekend and I had Saturday all planned out. It used to bother me when they would leave and I’d be home alone all weekend, but I’ve learned to accept it as the blessing it is. It’s a vacation from all the mom and wife duties! I use it as my rejuvenating time. I adore my hubby and boys, and I love their energy. It’s what makes our house a home. It tends to get rather loud around here though!
The plan was made. I’d sleep in the living room in front of the fire curled up with my pup on Friday night. I’d wake up and bask in the complete silence. No rushing around, no battling to get things cleaned-up, no making sure teeth are brushed, faces are washed, or food is in the belly. I didn’t have to worry about my hobby (laundry) because there wasn’t any! I could pretend I was on an amazing vacation with nothing to do but relax. I could watch a sappy Hallmark movie without groaning and eye rolling in the background. I could read a book without twenty interruptions. I could eat something simple without making a big meal. Yes, I was ready!
Nope, I wasn’t ready. The parents needed help doing leaves up at their camp. Their camp…which I’d have to drive to…by myself…with just the pup as the extra set of eyes. Could I do this? I’ve never gone by myself before. Would I get lost? How was I going to work and make sure the pup was ok? Would I have enough energy to get through the day? I could do it…I think. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. What was I thinking? I’m never alone.
Were there battles on Saturday? You bet! I wrestled with the pup’s crate and finally got it folded up, but my pants got wounded in the battle. The pup decided to “help” me outside without a leash on. I missed a turn and took a scenic route. This was all before I even got there! I admit to grumbling a little at this point, but these were my parents. They needed help! God wanted me to help them.
The character trait for today is Availability-making my schedule and priorities secondary to the wishes of those I serve (definition from characterfirst.com).
I’ve found that when you have plans, but are willing to change them to follow what God would have you do, He makes it up to you. He knows what we need even more than we do. He strengthened my confidence on Saturday. He allowed me to spend quality time with my parents and sister. He created a great training environment for the pup. It may have been different than my plans, but it was what I needed even more than what I thought I needed.
Are you willing to adjust your plans and your schedule to be available when God calls you? How much grumbling are you going to do?
Today, say to God, “Here I am.” When you get your assignment, don’t grumble, instead trust that He will travel with you wherever He sends you.
