My friend's words pulled my focus away from my feet, as I redirected my attention to the task of "loosening up," not an easy job for one who is perpetually tense. I hadn't even noticed how tense I was until my friend brought it to my attention.
This was one of my rare days of relaxation and I had journeyed south for a conference and to visit friends who lived in the area. The conference would start the next morning, but this day was dedicated to enjoyment and rest. Earlier in the day, my friend had showed me his new flock of sheep and taught me some basics of sheep management.
Now he was doing his best to teach me to two-step at a dance night organized by the Christian group on campus at the college where we had become friends. The evening was enjoyable, full of banter and laughter as I missed steps, but my friend had to repeat his gentle chiding a few more times before the event was over: "You have to let me lead."
That all happened this past Wednesday and I found myself recalling the event with a chuckle as I readied for church this morning. I've been recalling the fun all weekend, but today a new thought entered my mind.
How many times have I unwittingly ignored God as He sought to lead me?
How many times has the Good Shepherd tried to lead me to green pastures and still waters, only to have me pull against Him as I try to do the work He has for me in my own strength and in my own time?
It's a sobering thought, but I'm glad to know that if I redirect my attention and let God lead me, He is still there and will lead, as long as I let Him.
