From the Helm – Friday, August 28, 2009

3:20 AM - I’ve been back in the USA for 3 weeks now.  Yesterday, I was schedule to leave for the Valley to complete preparations for our final trip of the season.  The trip will no longer take place as planned and prepared for, leading to several unusual circumstances in the life of AMOR.  All, surmountable.  All, ultimately positive.  All is well.

- Lord, these have been interesting days You’ve gifted me with.  I’ve had the opportunity to observe the victory of human instinct over things of the spirit – sadly watching opportunities to serve being overwhelmed by earthly wisdom and the concerns of the flesh.  This sometimes seems to happen with frightening ease when personal motivation is unleashed in the absence of simple, earnest self-appraisal.  I stand guilty of such more times than I’d care to acknowledge, making self-appraisal of even greater necessity in my own life.

You’ve taught me much this week that will become clearer as the coming days and weeks unfold.  One old, yet timeless insight has been refreshing:  When limited by the bounds of human wisdom and logic, we act and react in predictable ways.  My only control in the deal is to continually strive for acceptance of this ever present truth.  More often than not, people will act as people will act.  I’m aware of this via the absolute recognition of the trait within my own being.  When left solely to my own ingenious devices, less than desirable outcomes usually result.

- These days, Lord, You’ve allowed me opportunities to seek Your guidance and clear direction at new levels.  You’ve allowed me the privilege of a higher dependence that has led to a greater comfort and peace in my soul.  I’m grateful for all that has transpired. Your ways are beautiful to me.  I welcome and humbly await the wisdom that will certainly come of it all.  Things are just as they are meant to be.  Your Grace, Wisdom and Provision are, as always, fully sufficient – fully sufficient, indeed…

- The Boys are back in the full swing of sports, school and relationships (or lack of).  It’s been good to watch as they’ve sought out their niche in it all.  Mom and Dad are physically well.  No great challenges at the moment.  I’ve enjoyed the close proximity to them, meeting daily for coffee, conversation, etc.  It’s a privilege God has given us as a family for the several months we’re able to be together like this.  This privilege is one I am intensely aware of and truly grateful for.  Few have such an opportunity…

- I returned Sunday evening from a weekend in Louisville, Kentucky.  We had a reunion gathering at the Wheeler’s home for the team members from over the years.  I saw so many friends that I’ve not seen in a good while.  The fellowship was beautiful.  The drive to and from served well to clear and settle my mind.  Lord, You’ve been gracious to place people in my life who are genuine.  Everywhere You’ve allow me to trudge, there You’ve placed those to be loved and those to be loved by.  I am overwhelmed by Your mercy and grace in this area.  Thank You for Your consideration of me in this way.  Thank You, indeed…

- Well, this day is about to dawn.  In a couple of hours, it will bring light to new opportunities.  I look forward to all that will be revealed.  I have the feeling that by the time I lay my head down this evening, it will have been a day, indeed…