Friday, October 23, 2009

Unexpected Blessing


My schedule was full. From the moment the alarm went off and my feet hit the floor, I knew I needed to use my time wisely in order to get to each scheduled meeting and appointment on time. After my Bible study, I put on my gym shoes and headed down to the basement to exercise. I spent a few extra minutes in prayer while I walked quickly up and down the inclines on my treadmill. Before I started my exercise routine, I was tired. I had gone to bed late the previous evening and was up fairly early, and now I was paying the price.


In spite of being tired, I was looking forward to each activity on my agenda, and while I headed to the shower, I was busy making mental notes of the things I would need to take with me. There was my laptop, the articles I had printed out for a friend, the plates of cookies and brownies to be delivered to the first responders, and the food for the friend who was sick at home. I breezed through my shower and began getting ready.


Have you ever noticed that when you don't have much time, suddenly, you can't find a thing to wear?! To further compound the problem, our weather has been a bit odd. One day it's hot. The next day it's freezing cold. My summer clothes were still hanging in my closet, and although it was cool, I knew the temperature was supposed to climb into the mid-70's by afternoon. I sprinted to the guest bedroom closet and began looking through my fall/winter wardrobe for a possible outfit. I was still having a hard time coming up with an outfit I wanted to wear. The style of that blouse wasn't right with this skirt. That sweater might be great this morning, but by afternoon, I'd be way too hot. Decisions, decisions...


By the time I settled my clothing dilemma, it was high time to leave. Only one problem, I hadn't plated my brownies or cookies. I'd have to call my friend who was making the deliveries with me and see if we could meet just a few minutes later. Fortunately, she too was running a bit behind and suggested I finish up and meet her at her house as soon as I could. A wave of relief washed over me. Now I just had to re-schedule my Bible study meeting, because I knew I wouldn't be back in time for that. Again, my request to change our meeting time was well-received.


Once the cookies and brownies were ready to go, I began the first of many trips to load the car. After everything was arranged, I grabbed my purse and began the challenging task of extracting my keys from its bottomless depths. I got a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. The harder I searched, the more I became convinced that I didn't have my keys. This couldn't be happening. My husband was out of town on business, so I couldn't borrow his keys. I was fairly certain that my daughter had forgotten to return my keys after she borrowed them the previous evening. A quick call to her school confirmed my suspicions. I had no choice but to call my friend and explain my situation...


As I look back on it, the entire morning was rather amusing. I was so concerned about not having enough time to get to my scheduled events, but the Lord knew all along that I would have plenty of time to do other things that day. The schedule I was prepared for, had been completely rearranged. All of a sudden, I had ample time to do whatever I wanted. I was like an elated school kid on a snow day. I knew this was a special gift from God.


I was reminded of the faithfulness of the Lord, even in the seemingly small things. After several busy days, He knew I needed a break. Having the day 'off' was an unexpected blessing and gave me pause to say with the Psalmist, David, "O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him" (Psalm 34:8, KJV).


What unexpected blessings has He showered on you? Be sure you thank Him today!

4 comments:

  1. I love it when he gives us exactly what we need, even we don't realize we need it! That's awesome! What a great gift!

    Have a great weekend!

    ReplyDelete
  2. So true Maria, God makes His way even in the little things! and He knows exactly when we need a time-out. This was cute! I can just see you running around! Glad God gave you a breather. :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. I'm glad you were able to smile about it!

    We do over extend ourselves and I appreciate the Lord slowing me down a bit. Looks like He does this for all His children.

    Blessings to you...

    ReplyDelete
  4. 'In God's perfect timing' has been the motto of our marriage. He is the best 'keeper of the clock.'
    It's a little sad our classes are over Maria. I'm so glad I found you in my writing adventures when I did. Once again, His timing is perfect! :)

    ReplyDelete