Many of us may have had high hopes for 2022. We were restful, and hopeful for what was looking to be better days ahead. We never really expected the start we had.
It is very common that we have a deep desire to know and understand, and if it all be possible, predict what is up ahead. We have this innate tendency to want to be able to figure things out, thinking that it can allow us to live better and secure lives. But just imagine how challenging it must also be when we know too much, and it is the circumstances of life that will now take hold and control of us. How crazy it would it actually be to get caught up knowing every single thing that is going to take place, and you being responsible for every single thing.
The reality of life is that no matter how much we know, we will still be left with some mystery, that there will be things best to be left unknown for the moment until it reveals itself. The fact is, when we allow ourselves to freely live in that degree of mystery, it allows God to work and make Himself more evident in His own mysterious ways as well.
A few weeks ago I went out for an early morning bike ride with some friends. Normally, I bring a small bag secured on my bike where I put my valuables while biking, but on this particular day I decided not to bring the bag and simply tuck my cellphone safely in my bike jersey. While we were riding along a highway, a “riding in tandem” came up by my side and snatched my cellphone! The stress of reporting the loss to police and securing my accounts made me feel like it's "one of those days." But what started as a bad experience became a blessing. People showed care and concern; not just the friends I was with, but from those who've heard about what happened.
Had I known I was going to get robbed, I wouldn't have left my trusty bag home that morning. I'd not have diverted from my normal routine. But had I known what would have happened, I would definitely miss out on the blessing and good that God brings in the midst of it. I was reminded that instead of allowing the uncertainties to worry or stress us out, it is actually experiencing these uncertainties that allows us to find genuine rest and hope.
