It was our first day home from a vacation. I don’t know about you, but my house literally looks like a tornado hit the day we return. No matter how much I clean and tidy up before leaving, it is a disaster area when we arrive home. This time was no exception.
This particular instance happened just a few days after Christmas, so we were expected at Michael’s parents early in the day to celebrate with family. Normally this would not be a problem for me, even if my home is beyond hope, I can usually pull it together and get everyone out the door. And I really don’t mind procrastinating when it comes to cleaning up such mayhem.
But this time was different. I was getting breakfast ready when the power went out. This is where the struggle began. My coffee had not finished brewing. As the morning progressed, more problems became apparent. I found myself rummaging through suitcases in dimly lit rooms for clean clothes. The toiletries were in the bathroom – which does not have a window to let in daylight. Never have toothbrushes and toothpaste been so elusive. And I kept stubbing my toe on luggage in the hallway that hadn’t been put away yet. At one point it crossed my mind that all of this may be for nothing if the power didn’t come on – I couldn’t go anywhere if the garage door wasn’t going to open…
On every front my efforts were thwarted. I needed power! Until this moment I had forgotten just how much I rely on the luxury of electricity. I flip a switch and “voila” the lights come on. I plug in my hairdryer and it blows hot air. At the push of a button the television becomes immediate entertainment for my children.
There are days that I re-enact this scenario spiritually. I forget that I have ultimate power for living. Why do I struggle in the dark, powerless when there is the promise for power and strength for my life? I don’t know the answer to this question. I guess it is a part of my sin nature. The desire for independence is strong – but it takes me to dark hallways where I can’t see and I end up completely immobile.
Ephesians 1:18-19 “I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength,”
It is only through Christ that I find strength for each moment – Hope for a bright future comes with total dependence on Him. With the Holy Spirit as my momentum I can live a life complete, without a power outage!
daily portion 