My cracked windshield is a reminder!

Soon after we got our Dodge Durango, I was on my way to work when another vehicle pulled out in front of me. In doing so they were discourteous, so I had to apply the brakes to avoid hitting them. That irked me and provoked the kind of ire that made me wish I could express my indignation directly.

I’m sure I let myself get too close and their truck threw a stone into my windshield. It was no small ding and once again I felt my anger rising. Now I really wished to ram the rear of their machine!

The crack was too big to repair and dropping temperatures the next morning spread the crack the full length of the windshield. Thankfully, it is at the bottom of the glass, so it does not interfere with driving. It is, however, a poignant reminder of my need to be meek.

I struggle relinquishing control. I resist limitations, and I often run late. I don’t like it when people are thoughtless or unkind, so I lose my peace in the face of circumstances that impinge on my freedom or comfort.

This desire for control of my life and others I call the master mind. It is the temptation I face every day to do life on my own terms and to take matters into my own hands. It shows up in my need to be right and my reflexive justification for my actions. It reveals itself in the anger I feel when my personal agenda is thwarted.

Now I like to see the crack in my windshield as God’s loving attempt to keep my attention. He uses it to remind me to slow down, to trust Him, and to exchange my master mind for a servant’s heart. It’s a big challenge for one who likes to be certain and to figure things out. But day by day, I am finding joy and delight when I surrender to him and approach each moment with curiosity openness, acceptance and love.

And when I do, I raise my gaze heavenward with gratitude and love. And when I look up, I can find peace again and look beyond that windshield with its crooked crack.