Lent: Day 19

Wrong Time, Right Place

“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” – Psalm 143:10

Joining the United Methodist Church was not my original plan. Growing up Presbyterian, I set out on a Sunday morning in February of 1992 to attend church at Fairlington Presbyterian Church in Alexandria, Virginia. Just out of college, and starting my first “real” job in Washington D.C., I set out on that Sunday morning to find a church to attend. I had driven by Fairlington Presbyterian, and it looked like a “nice” church, so I decided that is where I would go to church on Sunday. I pulled up in the parking lot at 11:00 that Sunday morning, and saw that the church service was letting out, not starting. Feeling defeated for getting the time wrong, I looked across the street and saw Fairlington United Methodist Church. Everyone was going in, not coming out. So, across the street I went to church. Fairlington became my church home for the next six years.

This church changed my life in many ways. It brought me closer to God, and showed me the loving and inclusive spirit of the United Methodist Church. It brought me a circle of friends, that to this day, I am still very close to. These friends opened my life to sharing love for each other, and taking care of each other. And, it brought me to my husband Philip, for Fairlington UMC was where I met him.

Had I decided to turn around and go home on that Sunday morning, instead of crossing the street, my life would be very different. I know that it was God that led me across the street. He held my hand, and guided me, because he had a plan for my life. Knowing that God has a plan for my life, and opening my eyes and heart to accept his plan, brings me peace. For when we accept His Will for our lives, and not our own, miracles happen.

During this Lenten season, won’t you open your life to God’s Will, and experience the miracles He has for you?

Prayer: Most gracious and merciful God, help us to live your Will for our lives. Open our hearts, to see where you are guiding us, and opportunities to share your love with others. Amen.