What was supposed to happen was school. Music lessons, math, some geography rabbit trails to botanical gardens around the world.
What happened instead was pneumonia, Covid tests, abbreviated work days, and so many rounds with a digital thermometer that the battery threatened to cry uncle.
What was supposed to happen was a quick trip to Nepal, training, checking in on ministry partners, some time with our daughter and her growing family.
What happened instead was an impending government-enforced lockdown, chaotic travel plans, more Covid tests, cancelled tickets, and multiple trips to the airport before finally catching a flight home.
It’s so tempting to look at it all and wonder where our plans went. Had we not prayed for direction? Were the doors not open wide? Did we do something wrong?
And then, the reality: God never lost track of us. He never looked up from His work elsewhere and slapped His forehead, shocked to have forgotten to take care of our family’s needs.
The evidence of His presence through it all is so plain when you know where to look. The last-minute re-routing to Lisbon, which yielded not only the chance for Christopher to catch his breath before diving in to a much-changed social setting in Kathmandu, but most importantly refreshing encouragement in the company of long-time, ministry-minded friends with an eye for Gospel opportunities. The chance to see our adult children come together in one purpose to support the entire family when Momma could not. An entire week of nights for Christopher under the same roof as Babita, being hosted in her home. The chance to serve one another, in love, together. A training in a new, unanticipated location with participants who are eager to make the event more than a one-off.
The plans were great. The reality was better. Harder, sure. I’m not saying it wasn’t downright ugly in moments. But then again, being open to God’s will always leaves you a little naked, a little vulnerable. Still, I will take the reality of His guiding hand over the illusion of my control any day. Wouldn’t you?
Just had this same conversation with my counselor. He is never surprised, never not holding us in the palm of his hand