The most popular topic of conversation in our village at the moment is the state of the roads. Unfortunately last autumn the first heavy lot of rain resulted in part of our road subsiding to such an extent the road had to be closed.(See TFTD 4/3/24) This has meant a 6 mile diversion out of the village on one of two roads. Both are becoming more and more churned up as heavy lorries and cars alike have to pull in on to the verge which causes muddy craters, whilst the potholes seem to expand further and further across the road. Added to this Anglian water announced they were starting essential work to bring water down from northern area of the UK into East Anglia – an area that has seen nearly continuous rain over the past few months!
In a brief respite with a break in the clouds and a traffic free road, I decided to take a walk to see how the roadworks were proceeding.
The first sign read “Diversion ends” and was placed at the entrance to a very muddy and waterlogged field, and was on part of the road still closed. Further along the road a sign read “when red light shows wait here” but no traffic lights to be seen.
Confusing?
(In fact the traffic lights were laying on the ground, I suspect, as it was the weekend and nobody working on the roadworks)
Sometimes we get messages that confuse us. We may be going along familiar routes, when suddenly our way is blocked, and we get diverted along unfamiliar routes. We may face obstacles along the way, sometimes having to go back in order proceed safely.
We may think we have a clear sign, but the reality is different.
Life may appear confusing.
However we have the assurance of a God who travels with us, who helps as navigate the obstacles we face, and who gives us the “red/amber/green” we need, even if we sometimes don’t notice.
Much as it is frustrating at the moment, I know that our road will eventually be reopened, and even more so I know that God faithfully opens the way for us all.
Prayer: Gracious God, forgive us when we misread the signs. Help us to navigate the obstacles we face, may we consider others as we face life’s journeys. Help us to understand that when you shut one way to us, you open others. Thank you for your faithfulness despite our confusion. Thank you that you open up ways on our faith journey, help us to recognise when you give us the red light and when you encourage us with a green light. AMEN