I am, these days, a home schooling mom by trade. Part of the home school mom job description is that you drive a mini van or larger vehicle. I’ve never been one to enjoy driving a big car… And when we decided to buy our Honda Odyssey, I just wasn’t sure about the whole thing.
But, I knew we needed to have more space, especially with three kids – if we ever wanted to comfortably make trips to visit my parents, we needed the larger car. So, I learned. Admittedly, in the beginning, I was no good at it.
I felt like I was steering a huge ocean going vessel. It was so awkward parking or making tight turns. But, I’ve learned. And to my credit – I haven’t scratched the car once, due to a mistake while driving. Yep, I’m comfortable in the driver’s seat these days. In fact the other day, we had to drop off a baby sitter. Her driveway is the kind that, in days gone by, I would have been afraid of, but not anymore. I’ve got it all under control!
Until I arrive at my in-laws home.
Michael’s parents home sits at the bottom of a fairly steep driveway on Signal Mountain. It curves just enough that I cannot confidently back out, without assistance. And by assistance I mean I have to ask Michael’s dad for help. These days when I arrive for a visit, he often asks for my keys and turns my van around for me without any discussion.
I find my confidence unraveling even as I talk about it. The truth is, its what needs to happen more in my heart. I would love for everyone, including myself to believe that I am the master of my destiny, that I’m the captain, large and in charge, no doubt!
But Jesus says no. He says, “Give me the wheel and let me turn this ship around.” Slowly, I’m learning it doesn’t need discussion. I did say slowly, didn’t I? Just about the moment I start thinking, “Wow! I’m really getting this whole driver’s seat thing…” He reminds me, “This is too big for you. You don’t even begin to know what you’re doing! Let me do it!”
And how can I argue? He really is the one who can handle it all! So, day by day I try to give Him the keys… hopefully avoiding any major collisions that I might cause. In exchange, each day He gives the grace I need to do just that!
Oh Lord! Let this be my prayer today…
Psalm 25: 4-6
4 Show me your ways, LORD,
teach me your paths.
5 Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
6 Remember, LORD, your great mercy and love,
for they are from of old.
daily portion 
My first trip up there in my “sea vessel” I got some help. He stood out there and I got it the first try. One Reverse, then go! It was pretty awesome.