Bound and Determined

The moment my arm got stuck in the wheel well, the kitten scratched my hand causing me to jerk backward and smash my head on the tire.  I ended up with a black streak across my right cheek and if I were being honest, I’d tell you I’m pretty sure I licked the tire when I howled in pain.  It was about then I realized my desire to be helpful was getting out of control. 

A disturbance outside had caused me to leave the flat, in time to see a group of crows chasing something furry under my car. I shooed the birds away and stooped to take a look.  Nothing.  Thinking Mr. Squirrel had upset someone, I turned to leave when I heard an earsplitting “MEW” ring out from under my car.  

The hunt was on.

Thirty minutes later, my children noticed I was missing and came outside.  Thirty minutes after that, my teenagers were under the van with mittens on, shouting instructions at each other while a tiny ginger cat balanced near the rear axle and ran into spaces in my car I never knew existed.  They were covered in dirt and oil, and were doing a fantastic job of not squishing the small, stubborn, sticky footed feline.  It was an excruciating experience, trying to rescue a creature that did not want to be rescued.  We were close to success when the daft critter bolted and crawled into the engine of a car a few doors down. 

The rescue effort was cancelled due to time constraints and everyone felt miserable for the rest of the day.  It was a very frustrating experience.  The kitten belonged to one of the feral cat families in the area.  It was sad, trying to rescue an animal that was working against us.  It got me to thinking about my own stubborn heart and all the ways that I make my life difficult. 

I ask the Lord to increase my faith, and whimper when a situation comes that is beyond my ability to fix.  Instead of viewing it as an opportunity to trust, I sit and fuss, batting away all attempts to step out in faith and prayer.  I sit in the dark fretting, rather than accepting help that is offered.   I would rather be comforted and coddled rather than convicted and corrected.  I don't want the help that God offers, much like the little creature under my car.    

Do you have any situations like that in your life friend?  Any offers for help you’ve ignored lately?  Have you asked the Lord for support only to turn down a dinner invitation because investing in relationships is too hard?  Ever wished that you had help with the children but refused to let your hubby hire a sitter so you could go out on a date?  It doesn’t make much sense does it?

It happens over and over.  We beg God for help, yet turn down resources and support when it is offered by another.  What we really want is for God to make us entirely self-sufficient, to give us strength and resources so that we don’t need to be humbled in front of others.  Lord, help me so that I don’t need you anymore.  It is odd, we are a strange people.

I’m praying for you this week my friend.  That you might find the strength to allow someone to help you.  That in being vulnerable, you might find the Lord will rise up and meet you in a way that surprises and delights you.

You are worth it.

xoxKaren

The kittens in the parking lot are still at large, climbing into cars and staying up late.  Strangely, my girlfriend introduced me to her new cat this week.  His name is Perry. I think I know his cousins.