God in the Detours

The words “Oil Change Required” flashed onto the dashboard of my minivan rental as our team arrived in the city of Buffalo. Thankfully, our three vehicle caravan had driven close to 400 miles from NYC, with no problems. The rental company advised that the minivan should be replaced as soon as possible at their selected location. This was just one of the many unexpected detours during our time at Niagara Falls.

In spite of all of our preparation, life can take unexpected twists and turns. It would have been easy to become frustrated at the rental agency for their lack of due diligence. But the Bible encourages us to “consider it pure joy, brothers and sisters, when we face trials of many kinds” (Jas 1:2). I wasn’t disappointed at the prospect of missing the evening activities, but was immensely grateful that the minivan endured the long drive. I became curious to see how God would lead me in this detour. On my way to the rental location, I was notified that a youth had lost their sleeping bag & pillow. To my astonishment, the rental location placed me minutes away from a Walmart. And because of this unexpected inconvenience, I was able to purchase missing essentials for the team.

How do we respond when life events are not going according to our plans? The Apostle Paul reminds us as the reader to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”. (1 Thes 5:18) This verse is not meant to ignore or minimize negative experiences, but rather choosing to focus on gratitude for what is good, and trusting God’s sovereign plan.

“For we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28