We sat around the table and heard the state of affairs and it made me think.
Honestly, the first thought was, ‘What on earth am I doing here? What have I got myself into?’ That was soon followed by the thought, ‘What is the quickest and best way to get out of this mess?’
After a while though, once the initial shock of the situation died down, somewhat, there was time for a more calm reflection on things and that calm reflection allowed for other questions to shape the thinking to gain discernment for the best way ahead. Questions that included,
What stage is this group of people at? Are they in the middle of something? Are they reaching the end of something? Or is this the makings of a new beginning?
Where do I fit in the story? Am I there to build in the front or support from the background? Is this something that I can afford to take on among the other responsibilities I have?
Through all of that is the fundamental question that drives it all – is this what God is leading me to do?
I love the questions because it shows a level of engagement and at least some sort of interest in what’s going on. The way those questions are addressed says a lot about whether the level of interest will be sustainable and if the endeavour will prove worthwhile.
I also find that progress is often made not so much by getting firm answers to questions as to still being vibrant to continue to ask those questions. As well as that to be available to go through the process of understanding how those can be answered.
It is something I continue to learn to not disregard the initial reactions to developments. Not to play them down or ignore them. At the same time, wisdom has also said that it’s worthwhile contemplating on things if time allows. Giving them a chance to breathe in the light of further questions and then as God guides going with what’s the right next step.
That right next step is usually right because it takes into consideration the stage we’re at in the journey.
(Photo by Matese Fields on Unsplash)
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 