Daily Guideposts - 20 Day SampleExemplo

A Prayer on a Wing Why Me?

After a frantic first week of classes, this was supposed to be my free morning of a long-anticipated three-day weekend. We were supposed to go to Mom’s lakeside cottage. In fact, Trina will begin the drive there in just two hours. Now at nine on this brilliant Saturday morning, my brother calls to say that the cottage has been rented. Moments later, my phone dies, disconnected. How can I tell Trina of the change of plans? I can’t even call my brother.

I sputter all the way to the wireless store, wait in line, pay the over-looked bill—and try again to call Trina. Still no service. The patient store manager lets me use his own phone. No answer. I leave a message. Just to be on the safe side, I’ll have to drive twenty-five minutes to Trina’s to tell her in person; so much for my free morning. I fume all the way to my car.

My heart still pounds as I merge onto Route 4. At least traffic is light, so I can scan the woodsy landscape lining the road. Soon, I spot a hawk—perhaps an eagle—wings outstretched as it catches an updraft and glides, seemingly forever, over the highway. No flapping here. This majestic bird, the essence of grace, trusts the air and its invisible support. Imperceptibly, the tension in my neck and shoulders disappears. I remember the hymn about the security of eagles’ wings and begin to hum it, then sing all the verses.

By the time I arrive at Trina’s, I’m totally calm and better able to help her get over her initial disappointment at the botched plans. We share coffee, create Plan B, and ultimately enjoy a restful weekend—lifted up by grace.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the ways You lift me up and help me glide when I start flapping.

—Gail Thorell Schilling