Straight Paths

Our family is in the middle of what could be a turbulent transition. I had a friend ask how it was that we came to our decision to suddenly move our family across the country without confidence in jobs or a real plan. The best answer I could offer was that we were doing our best to be good parents to the three sons God has brought into our lives. Though, when I think about it, taking such risks with our sons' welfare on the line doesn't seem like such "good parenting."

We are becoming practiced in faith-leaps these days. Neither my husband nor I are major risk-takers; we are actually more the follow-the-rules type. But we have been invited to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding, in all our ways to acknowledge Christ so that the Lord can make our paths straight (Prov 3:5-6, my paraphrase).

I don't really know what to do with this whole concept, though. In the past we have "heard the voice of God" directing us here or there and have followed. Though we have always been cared for, the pathway has sometimes been bumpy. And now, in this decision that seems more like a knee-jerk reaction than following some kind of "master plan," we are watching as "everything falls into place." The problem for me is that I cannot imagine that God is not working out all things for our good: jobs seemingly falling from the sky; a place to live that will help us and some friends while the housing market is slow; the eager, positive support of our family and friends. During hard times I am not one to say resignedly, "Well, God does everything for a purpose; there must be a reason for this." But during this time of relief and good news upon good news, I am constantly inclined to give thanks and praise to God for offering us straight paths.

Is it possible that the Lord is the God of the Gospel? The Good News? And that while God walks with us through the darkness of bad news and bumpy roads, God's actions are designed to bring about joy and peace and hope? I have more questions than answers about God's activity among us, but I confess with hope that "this is Our Father's world" and that "God is the ruler yet."