Spiritual Robbery

My planner held the usual penciled words for Monday: Cleaning and laundry. By early morning the clothes swished around in the suds. Karl & Crew morning radio kept me company as I did my work-out. The phone rang. A bit early, I thought. The caller ID read Ray. “Hi, Buddy,” I said. “I can’t go to work today,” my son said in a voice sounding stuffier and scratchier than usual. “How long have you been sick?” I asked, and he told me that his throat started hurting the day before.

Being mom to a special-needs son adds responsibilities. There’s another layer of concern since he doesn’t live with us. I asked Ray if he wanted an appointment with his doctor. He agreed, and I told him I’d call him back. There go my plans for catching up on housework, I thought. After being out of town the week before, I had hoped to concentrate on my to-do list.

I tapped my pencil impatiently as I sat on hold for an appointment, more precious time passing. Finally learning of an opening early in the afternoon, I rushed to finish my exercises and devotions that followed. I felt put out that my routine was interrupted. My prayer time seemed hurried.

The physician’s assistant found no fever or serious throat problem. We ran to the pharmacy for some over-the-counter remedies she recommended. The store didn’t stock the needed items, so another stop was added. By the time we headed back to Ray’s apartment and got him settled, the day was nearly gone. I felt tired and frustrated.

During the drive home, I recalled part of Pastor’s sermon the day before. He challenged us to notice when hard things rob us of our joy this week. I thought, I just got robbed. He suggested that we needn’t wring our hands about circumstances. The daily problems we face are not worth comparing to the glory that will be revealed in us (Romans 8:18). 

The rest of the ride, I focused on what went right about the day instead of chores I didn’t get accomplished. I thanked God for my son, that his illness wasn’t serious, and for the PA who showed sincere concern for him. I prayed for healing. And I asked God’s forgiveness that I allowed events to upset me. By the time I arrived home, I felt more at ease.

A planner is an indispensable tool for being where we need to be and managing daily tasks. When plans change, though, God reminds us that He is in control. Proverbs 16:9 says, “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” Let’s not allow our dependence on schedules to steal our joy in simply trusting God.