A Way in the Wilderness

by Margaret Michel

Isaiah 43:19

Behold, I will do a new thing. It springs out now. Don’t you know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

I could never have been completely prepared for the winters of Southwest Michigan.

Roads appeared passable when I peeked periodically through my workplace window. Not seeing any imminent cause for alarm, I opted not to leave early.

I was wrong.

While still at a distance to have easily reconsidered, the roads remained clear. But that drastically changed as I approached a place where a U-turn was not advised.

The snow drifts were higher, the wind speeds faster, and the roads icier.

Soon, I was in the midst of a blinding snowstorm. Traffic lanes disappeared. Other cars became invisible, despite having their lights on. Most frightening was my inability to see where the highway boundaries were.

Every muscle was tense as I gripped the steering wheel in desperation and called out to God.

A truck appeared, seemingly coming out of nowhere.

At first, I was annoyed, but I soon realized that the truck was an answer to prayer. Its tires made clear tracks and its lights were brighter than mine. It forged a way for me in the snowy wilderness.

Whether physical or spiritual, no matter what wilderness you or I find ourselves in, God always knows the way that is best. All we need to do is stick close to Him and follow in faith.


Reflection

How willing am I to relinquish my plans and notice new ways that God might be pointing out to me?


Prayer

Dear God, please do a new thing in my life. I surrender my failed solutions to You. Guide me safely at home. In Christ’s name I pray, Amen.