An incubator of innovation

[RonJulian]

"Story after story shows the Lord of the universe working in triage mode, responding creatively to threats to his plan" (p. 251).

In Congo, where I live, life is often less predictable than it would be if I was living in the States. I have grown accustomed to this. However, I do not always see the opportunity in the unpredictability nor seek how God will take these changes in plan to continue to work his plan.

I am encouraged by this reading to look for the opportunities God sees and wants to use in all the interruptions and obstructions with which I am confronted. I want to see the "redemptive dimension" in these challenges, to consider that "interruptions may be invitations" (p. 253).

I want to learn that this dessert of interruptions and obstructions can become "an incubator of innovation" (p. 249) as I walk through these situations with God leading me.

[llynch]

Yes, are we willing to adapt and "see" interruptions as invitations? Whether in the Congo or in the USA we have ideas and plans about what we hope to do or accomplish (albeit at a slower pace in the Congo). The idea that God may want us to evaluate or wait or rest - or learn to say "no" or change course in response to certain recurring issues- This all takes discernment from the Holy Spirit and a community of believers who are "in your life" not just "around you." Being able to respond patiently to circumstances beyond one's control is a sign of spiritual maturity and wisdom. As we've learned from While Shepherds Watch Their Flocks desert living forges character of this sort.