prone to wander

I got a new car! Yippee!

I WILL DRIVE CAREFULLY! I WILL DRIVE CAREFULLY! I WILL DRIVE CAREFULLY!

They told me my car was a “total loss.” It felt so hurtful.

Anyway, I now have to get a new car. Any suggestions?

I was in a car accident on Saturday. It was minor, no injuries, but technically my fault. We were merging onto I-76 west and when the F-150 in front of me saw the stand still traffic we faced ahead he decided it would be a good idea to STOP! I swerved to miss his abrupt halt but clipped the rear of his truck.

Boo. Hoo.

Feel sorry for me yet?

I was so angry. It was his fault. He took blame, apologizing over and over again. I knew, however, this was my fault. Bottom line. So I reached this conclusion. Driving away from my poor, poor Scion Tc. Rules are in place not to stifle us but to protect us. Rules are established when someone does something reckless or careless and decides to let the rest of the world know, “HEY, DON’T DO THIS!”

It’s obvious right. We hear this when we are children. “I’m doing this to protect you.” We get it… but only to an extent. It is when we actually make the mistake of disobedience that we feel the sting of consequence.

As I maneuvered my rental (2008 Jeep Compass) home my mind raced.
“That stop sign’s there for a reason, those double yellow lines aren’t confining me their guiding me, this seat belt is for my protection.”

These thoughts translated into my spiritual life. God has set up rules for us; rules that I often overlook as fundamental laws that I don’t necessarily need to follow. Don’t get drunk. No sex before marriage. Go to church on Sunday. Love your neighbor. Watch your mouth.

God actually says (I assume), “ Alcohol can make you foolish. I gave you an incredible mind and clear thoughts. You are not a fool. Your body is a temple. Your heart is mine. No one will ever love your body as much as I do. My words will guide you and fellowship will encourage you. The bride will help you grow. I created this world and all that is in it. Love the people in it and respect it in order to glorify Me and to maintain its youth.”

It’s not rocket science. But now and again, we all need to be reminded.

Accidents happen. On the road. In our lives. God is gracious. Endlessly.