MONDAY MEDITATION: Flying (November 25)

I know the experience of being in need and of having more than enough; I have learned the secret to being content in any and every circumstance, whether full or hungry or whether having plenty or being poor. — Philippians 4:12

In the picture above, Barb and I are about to fly the Atlantic, 8+ hours, and eventually land in Scotland. I remember grumbling about the length of time. And, the fact that Scotland is 6 hours ahead of us timewise gave additional undertones to the grumbling.

The best help in dealing with grumblings is putting this all into perspective. Before flying, the fastest way to get across the “pond” was by ship, varying between 10-20 days. Eight-plus hours to get to Europe would have sounded like science fiction a few decades ago.

Why is it that we may be obsessed with speed, length, efficiency, comfort? Paul put everything into perspective by seeing the bigger picture. What’s more important are the people we spend time with, the Jesus we relate to, and the purpose we’ve each been given. It’s truly not about us, but living fully into whatever situation we find ourselves.

The next time you face something unpleasant, it’s helpful to know that unpleasant is temporary. What lies ultimately ahead of you–the “Scotlands” and your fellow travelers–is what really counts.

PS– The next few Monday Meditations will feature pics and stories from this trip to such an amazing, enchanting country. Glad to invite you to relive some of that journey with me!