Parking Puzzle

“Do you have a reservation?” This question is always asked by the parking attendant at a local theatre. And for good reason. At this quaint, 95 year old playhouse, once you’re parked you’re parked! There is no getting out of the lot (except for a few designated spots).

The sardine style setup is a show of its own and the faithful attendant takes his work seriously. He is deliberate, direct, and dedicated. Not to be messed with. Patrons respectfully cooperate with him and wait for his clear instruction.

This system is unusual, but it works and nobody flinches.

Imagine the same scenario without the attendant. Same number of cars. Same amount of space. No guidance.

Makes my head spin just thinking about it!

I picture total chaos and frustration. Not to mention zero chance that all the cars will find a spot.

Do you ever feel like the pieces of your day need to fit into a similarly confined space? Trying to squeeze in the musts and save room for the things that energize and restore. This can be particularly challenging when something surprises us and begins to consume our hours—an illness, an added responsibility at work, a time consuming event, a family emergency, a friend in need, a forgotten school project.

In my own life, asking God for guidance and allowing him to lead the way makes all the difference. The difference between those two parking lots! The difference between order and overwhelmed.

Just as the theatre employee knows every inch and angle of the lot, God is the expert in our lives. He has the master plan. He sees the bigger picture.

When we greet each day, wondering how we will get it all done, we only need to remember the One who can make all the pieces fit. Trusting Him, He will joyfully direct us in all things.

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.” Psalm 32:8