Hey lady...move that car!

To get to work, there are a bajillion (yeah, I said bajillion) detours. They are paving my neighborhood, so I had to go the crazy long way to get out. They are working on railroad tracks on the major road I use to get to work. So I have to go a crazy long way to get there. 

On my way today, I was stopped at a light and decided to turn around and talk to my daughter. You know, Mom stuff..."Your beautiful! Are you excited about today? Whatcha thinking about?" That kind of stuff. I guess I was drawn into our conversation for too long.  The guys behind me was laying on his horn and yelling and screaming. So I politely waved the "Oops, I am so sorry wave" and proceeded to turn. After he passed me, using a variety of different signals to let me know I needed to pay attention (none of them vulgar), I felt like God blessed me with a thought. 

Did me waiting at the light really matter? Was it an inconvenience? Yes! But in the grand scheme of life, did it matter? What's most important is how we react to those inconveniences. We live in a country that is so...I WANT IT NOW! I wonder if it develops a selfishness in us that says, 'It's all about me and my wants being instantly gratified'.

This morning, I could have thrown a fit about all the detours. I could have reacted in anger towards this guy for the mistake I did. I have before. But I didn't feel that I needed to. I was grateful our street was being fixed. I was thankful for extra time with my daughter. I felt peace.

Our family verse is Colossians 3: 12-17. Verse 15 says, "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."

Now, I am not saying I am perfect. I get all wrapped up in frustration all the time. But that moment was a reminder to me. What's important? And I let Christ's peace rule in me which brought gratitude. Only God does that!

As he drove by, I talked to my daughter about these things and then we prayed for him and his daughter who was in the front seat. We prayed for their peace. I shared with her that sometimes people react in extreme anger towards our mistakes because of a hurt in them that has nothing to do with us. And when that happens, we pray. 

So, if you happen to see me and I am angry with you or frustrated, pray for me. And if God prompts you to, ask me if it's that important.