When I was little there were some very difficult lessons to learn. Like: which is the right hand and which is the left; which is a mitten and which is a glove; which is silver and which is gold? By the time I was eight I had those problems solved and later went on to determine what the least common denominator was and the values of x in a quadratic equation. I have learned my lessons and become a senior citizen. Now I confront new challenges like how do I change the clock in my car this Sunday?

I have to acknowledge that there are a lot of things I haven’t mastered, and there are likely a whole bunch out there waiting for me. That’s troublesome for someone like me who likes to be in control of things. Is it a spiritual problem?

I ran across this quote from Flemish author L. vander Kerken, “To want to be on top of everything is often to get stuck in the emptiness of everything.” Yeah, I think she’s right. If you try to control everything you risk doing nothing.

So I make two observations. First, life requires humility. There’s always something you don’t know or can’t do. We need help in life. That’s why God gave us each other. Second, not knowing everything leaves room for mystery. Life is more interesting when you don’t have all the answers. And the greatest mystery is life in God.

Face your challenges, accept help, and marvel in the mystery of God. That’s plenty to do.

Read 1 Corinthians 2:7 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally (even when you don’t have all the answers).

Wayne