Devotional 12 - "Wait just a minute"

            My mother used to tell a story during many of our kids crusades that we did each summer we came back to the States from the mission field. The words I can never forget are “wait just a minute.” It is a story about three trees. The first tree wanted to be the most beautiful treasure chest. The second tree wanted to be the biggest ship that carries the most powerful kings and the third tree wanted to stand tallest tree to help point men to God. A few years past and the first tree was chopped down and made into a manager where farm animals ate. The first tree complained that he wasn’t the precious treasure box, but God said, “wait just a minute little tree you will soon be holding the greatest treasure of all.” Then a young couple had a delivered a baby boy and used the manager as his crib, he was holding baby Jesus, definitely the greatest treasure of all!

            The second tree got cut down and made into a small fishing boat. The tree thought this wasn’t what I had planned. He wanted to carry a powerful king, but God said, “wait just a minute little tree, soon you will be carrying the King of Kings.” Then one afternoon there was a large crowd following a man who was preaching. The man ended up needing to stand in the boat so he could preach to the large crowd. He finally did hold the King of Kings whose named Jesus.

            The last tree soon noticed that he was going to be cut down. He didn’t want to be cut down. All he wanted to do was point men to God by standing tall, but God said, “wait just a minute little tree, soon you will be hold the man that will point all men to me.” Next he was made into a cross on top of a hill where they hung Jesus Christ on him. He truly did point men to God.

            I share this story to remind us that we all have plans and dreams, but sometimes they don’t go exactly as plan. God has a greater purpose that we may not see clearly now. I am still trying to figure out what is the next step in my calling. I do know what my passion is, which is building relationships with others and helping them build a relationship with Jesus. Sometimes we need to hear “wait just a minute” before we rush into a decision or commitment that we think is perfect for us. Maybe you are encountering a few bumps or detours in your path today. One day they will make sense. Remember disappointments are only temporary hurdles that will help you jump higher and stronger on the next lap!