Recalculating

If I polled a group of women, most of them would probably say that the men they know seem to exhibit signs of being directionally challenged. Men are notorious for failing to “ask for directions” as they pursue their destinations. I have to say that growing up in the 60’ and 70’s was quite a bit different than it is now. 

When I got my license to drive, I was so excited. I didn’t really have any place to go but that didn’t stop me from hopping on the road and exploring. Taking my first “road trip” required careful planning and an understanding of what would call a gas station map of our state. It folded out to an unmanageable size and needed lots of space to view. Once it was opened, it was imperative to find out exactly where you were before you could even start mapping out where you were going. It was a lengthy, laborious and often frustrating process. 

I remember my first business trip where I rented a car and was asked if I wanted a “navigation system”. A what? They called it “Magellan” and it would be a little device that was added to the car to help you find your destination. When you turned it on, it already knew where you were and when you typed in the address to where you were going, it mapped out the way and would begin to assist you by guiding you on your trip. It was amazing! Even if I took a wrong turn, it had some counsel…it would say “recalculating”. Not “your lost” or what’s the matter with you?”  or “where are you going?”. It simply began to adjust my route to get be back on the right one and moving towards my destination. Technology keeps changing and I've progressed through many devices: a TomTom, a Garmin and now it's a simple app on my phone! 

I think following Jesus may feel like this. He knows exactly where I am and He has a plan and a destination in mind for me. Sometimes I ask Him to take me there but too many times, I can try to do it myself…like a typical guy. I go off road. I take wrong turns and detours. I find myself in places that I never intended to go. Fortunately, the Lord gently recalculates my journey and makes a way for me to find the route and return to the way He desired. All I have to do is ask.

Today it is so easy to find any destination you need, simply by asking your phone to take you there. No foldable paper maps, no trying to identify where you are, no delay. What if finding our divine purpose and destination was this easy? When is the last time you asked the Lord to take you where He desired? Aren’t you tired of hearing that phrase, recalculating? A detour never has a sign saying, "short delays ahead". Today, let's just pray about it. 

"Lord, take me to the path that is filled with the fullness of your joy and peace that is so incredible I cannot comprehend it. I want to follow you. I look forward to the day you say to me, you have arrived at your destination!"