While my son and I were traveling to the Atlanta airport last week, I received a message from the airline telling me my flight had been cancelled. My mind raced to all of the reasons why that was completely unacceptable. I quickly called the airlines to see what could be done. An agent said, “If you can get here by 5:30PM, we can get you on a flight through Chicago and get you home tonight.” Yeah!!
My dear son got focused on the task at hand, and I walked into the terminal with 60 seconds to spare. Whew! LOL.
Soon the aircraft arrived and the first group of passengers prepared to board. Oops! What a minute! The loud speaker came on and we were informed that there had been a problem with pressure in the cabin upon landing and maintenance would have to do a brief check before we could take off. To make a long story short, due to those mechanical difficulties the plane was unable to leave in time to make my connecting flight.
I was disappointed. It was an inconvenience to have to stay in Atlanta another night. It crowded my schedule for the week, I would miss a scheduled conference call, and my husband would have to reschedule several meetings in order to pick me up at the airport. Not to mention that it was the second anniversary of my husband’s life saving surgery and I really wanted to give him a hug.
Following a needed attitude adjustment, I began to realize the ways the Lord was taking care of me. The earlier flight had been cancelled because of a weather delay, and in those situations passengers have to make their own arrangements. Because this flight had been grounded by mechanical problems, I was given a voucher for my night’s lodging, dinner, and breakfast. My needs were well provided. My husband and I adjusted our schedules, and the best part was that I met several wonderful people – one whom I believe will become a friend.
The Lord turned a frustrating situation into a blessed adventure! Praise and Glory!! I actually enjoyed my evening of quiet. I spent some time writing and relaxing, and was reminded that the times I determine the order of things and fly into a frenzy when they don’t follow my plans . . . I end up frantic and frustrated about things I can do nothing about. However, when I trust the Lord’s ways, I am more prepared to recognize His higher purposes and the blessings found in the unexpected.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:30-31