Did You Ever Ever Ever?

In elementary school, my friends and I used to do a hand-clapping game that began like this, "Have you ever ever ever in your long-legged life seen a long-legged sailor with a long-legged wife?" To which we would respond, "No, I never ever ever..."(repeating the verse). That little song came to mind while reflecting on some of the things I have been asked to do over the last 7 years.

“Why do you want to go on this mission trip?” Answering the other questions on the form was definitely a lot easier. I couldn’t think of a really good response when I signed up for Caminos de Esperanza (Journeys of Hope) to Guatemala and I still didn’t have one when I met with the group last Saturday.

I actually think the fewer expectations I have, the better. If I have learned anything at all about how God works, I have learned that what I have in mind seldom resembles His plans. Being a Sunday School teacher was something I strenuously avoided. When I finally gave in, I still had no idea how deep of an impact the experience would have on my faith.

Since that time, a few more things have been added to that list of things-I-never-thought-in-a-million-years-I-would-do, such as call committee chair, church secretary and synod assembly delegate. They seemed to me to be just as unlikely as going on a mission trip to Guatemala with a bunch of people I don't know.

Now, every time I hear that verse from Jeremiah that begins, “For surely I know the plans I have for you..." I almost have to laugh.