Words

Words

Transition. Diana's and my life since 2011. It followed 25 years of stability in North Dakota. First, the flood. That is when we moved into my office for temporary shelter. Change was initiated by circumstances outside of ourselves. That is life. Two years later we were off to Austin, Texas. A new geographical area of the country for us but who doesn't love an adventure? Actually, many of us. Abraham and Sarah struggled with their reassignment late in life. But the good news is, neither of us has had a visitation revealing that we would also have a child late in life. You always need to look for the positive aspects of any situation.

One and half years in Austin and more transition. This time to Utah. Beautiful state and another new geographical area of the country. It did afford us closer proximity to North Dakota and our family and friends. North Dakota is home for us even though we do not currently reside there. The prairie speaks to us.

One and half years later we are now back in the Austin area. The Hill country of Texas is beautiful. Many changes over the past five years. It might be best to reserve those changes for earlier in life and then settle down. That seems more normal but the last several years have proven there is no normal for anyone any where in the world. The only grounding is the unchanging God, who calls, moves, creates, and sustains Creation in his care, mercy, and grace.

Downsizing. That has been the theme over the past five years. We have made every effort to live with the basics. That will be tested when our furniture arrives and we will have to put all of our belongings in a one bed room apartment. This will be a six month adventure until we can find permanent housing. Diana and I have a nearly 40 year track record of getting along so it should not be a problem living in close proximity.

Reality. See the previous paragraph; we needed to down size more. I am hopelessly optimistic. Regroup. It will be fine, really. We will deal with it. It could be worse or maybe it could be better? No, comparisons do not apply in this situation. It simply is what it is and life moves on.

Donkey. Yes, in the middle of no where in New Mexico there was a small donkey on the side of the road. There was no sign of life for miles. He seemed fine, we really didn't have time to stop and talk. It would have been possible (for reference see talking donkeys in the Old Testament). I think the donkey was more surprised to see us.

Questions. Our children are grown right? We didn't leave any kids at the Travel Stop did we? Wait, we have grandkids. Great, the kids are safe. No its not that means we are old! We are not old are we? We are old and its already Thursday? No, I said we are not old and I am thirsty. Who is Bob? And why do we care if he has a job? Presidential election? Who has time for that? We will vote independent and do everyone a favor. I am still backing the Kingdom, the power and glory. I have a lot of questions and concerns but not about my Father. That is a relief.

Tacos. So many tacos, beans, brisket everything, migas, huevos rancheros delicious fried stuff, kaloches, German food and beer, HEB, Willy Nelson, Gackles every where, yes we are back in Texas.

Methodist. Back at our church and that has been refreshing. They even left the porch light on for us and had donuts waiting. Let's see, what is it they say in Texas? Yes, bless their hearts. Our grand son starts kindergarten at a Methodist church in North Austin this week. He is very methodical so this should go well.

Theology. What about predestination? It is losing viability if we have to believe Hilary and Donald have to be the choice for president. I know Charlie Strong wants to believe in predestination. He is praying the University of Texas  is predestined to have a winning season. But they open against Notre Dame. He might want to study the theology of suffering. Can Alabama and Ohio State both  be predestined to win it all?  No, that is not even logically possible. So maybe it is predestined Clemson wins it all and Gary Johnson becomes president. Theology. I like the doctrine of hope and faith.

Documentaries. The Eagles, Three Dog Night, The Carter Family, Muscle Shoals, Grand Funk Railroad - I have been on a musical journey. Music speaks to all of us and it knows no barriers or race or religion. It moves us and calls to the deep places of life. I propose that the Government do something worth while for a change and sponsor a week of free concerts in every major city in America. Book every major artist and every small time band. Furnish a free picnic. Let's just picnic and listen to music for a week. No internet, no news, just fellowship.

Chronicles of Narnia. Listened to the entire series on the way from Utah to Texas. The last time I read the entire series was in a class on works by C.S. Lewis. It was like hearing them again for the first time. It fuels your imagination and it is life giving. I highly recommend this book on tape series.

Prayers. All kinds of prayers. Help prayers. God what is going on prayers. Walk in the midst of their suffering prayers.  Angry prayers. Prayers of frustration. Prayers of peace. Every emotion running to and fro in my mind. At least it is working. Our grand daughter made it much more simple. In one of her nightly prayers she thanked God for food and her legs. Hallelujah!

Connected. All of the above could be taken as ramblings. In some ways it is and then in other ways it is not. It is all connected through God and his grace. It is the life that is happening right now in God's presence. In all of it I hear the voice of God. It even seems disconnected to me many days. But I press on adjusting to the different rhythms and sounds and sometimes the discord hoping ever and staying focused on the one promise that has propelled my life forward. I am confident I will see the goodness of God in the land of the living. (Psalm 27) Amen

James Shackelford