Uneven Ways

Psalm 106:1-15

Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.

Psalm 37:5 (NRSV)

THE road from the Luanda airport to southern Angola is under repair. Clearing away the old road's surface to allow the repairs has dropped the road below the level of the surrounding buildings, making it difficult for pedestrians to get to the banks, shops, and markets along the way. I found myself wondering if we could lower the buildings a little, or somehow raise the road surface to be level with them.

While the work of fixing the road goes on, people continue to step up and down every day between the level of the road and the level of the buildings. In the midst of the upheaval and the noise of the heavy machines, they wait for the day the work will be completed, providing more comfortable travel.

This uneven and challenging area reminds me of the story of the Israelites after they crossed the Red Sea. In spite of their disobedience, God led them through the wilderness and delivered them from the hands of their enemies.

The road of life is difficult and sometimes full of twists. Sometimes we have to go up and go down, go to the right and the left. We pass through valleys and climb mountains. Meanwhile, the Lord looks after us during our journey and leads us no matter what part of the path we face each day.

Emilio J.M. de Carvalho (Luanda, Angola)

Our God and guide, strengthen us and give us the hope that will enable us to overcome life's difficulties. We trust you. Amen.

In life's ups and downs, God journeys with us.

The people of Angola