Ordinary Things

Today I write about an experience illustrating much of what I’ve learned about walking with the Lord. It starts with a cat. Our’s of 14 years had recently died leaving a gap I wanted filled. I asked God to lead us to the perfect cat for our RV lifestyle. One day in Prosser, WA my husband was on his early morning walk and a cat called out to him from under a freeway bridge. God provided and directed from out of the ordinary in life.

He was a delightful pet, full of personality and loved meeting new people. He accompanied us on walks, enjoyed riding in the car, and preferred to do his business outside. We named him Oliver Stripe. God gave him, and then took him away and our hearts were sore for weeks.

“Why?” I asked. I had trusted the Lord to care for Oliver in his wanderings. I sank into worry and depression when he disappeared. My ‘need to know’ about Oliver’s fate led me astray and my trust proved shallow. I was faithless to the One who is everlastingly faithful.

God has always notified us of big change around the bend; a commitment wraps up, a roadblock opens, his Spirit convicts, signs he has given appear, or our perfect RV cat vanishes. Sometimes big rapids come into view, other times it is a peaceful stretch of calm water. Whichever, I must hang onto the lifeline of trust in my faithful Lord and pray now for his grace to sustain it.

Lord, thank you for your gift of Oliver. He was such fun! In his absence, please heal our grief. Make us ready for the road you have laid for us. May we trust you as we travel, regardless the road’s condition or where it leads, always and only for you and your glory.