A frequent refrain these days, one I’ve often thought myself, goes something like this: “Life feels so out of control.”
We try to imagine the future in this time of pandemic and realize there aren’t any absolute answers to our questions. “How long before we get back to normal?” Will things ever be the way they used to be?” Will I still have a job to go back to? Will we be able to visit the family this summer? Will school start in the fall?”
It’s disconcerting to think about such an uncertain future. However, I wonder if this strange season hasn’t just highlighted the truth that we really have very little control over our lives in the best of times.
I confess I am one who tries desperately to plan well enough to minimize the chances of bad things, or even unexpected things, upsetting our lives. I am also one who has come kicking and screaming into the realization that it simply can’t be done. So often my well-laid plans fall apart in the face of circumstances I could not have anticipated. It’s a stressful way to live.
Jesus offers us a way out of the fear and worry that comes of trying to control the circumstances of our lives and into a place of peace and rest.
“Come to Me,” He says, all of who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
We can come to Him as a trusting child comes to a much loved father and release our tight-fisted grip on what we perceive as control and trust Him to orchestrate the circumstances of our lives according to His wise and loving will.
“You will keep in perfect peace
all who trust in you,
all whose thoughts are fixed on you!”
Isaiah 26:3
Blessings,
Linda
