...Balance...

Have you ever thought that perhaps the everyday routines in our lives are what allow us to step out into the extraordinary moments in life?

Personally I don't enjoy washing dishes, dusting, vacuuming and the never-ending laundry in our home. However, when I've been away at a conference or event which is way out of the norm of my everyday life, I do find the mundane jobs at home help me transition back into everyday life. Most of us do not spend our days on the cutting edge of life; life and death moments - both literally and spiritually. In my observations most people have their routines whether they realize it or not; like the usual streets travelled to and from work, your favourite coffee hot spot, and/or the order you put on your socks (socks then pants, or pants then socks). We are creatures of habit and yet we tend to love those adrenaline rushing, roller coaster moments in life when we can throw everything to the wind, tilt our heads back and laugh into the face of fear (even if we're on the kiddies slide!).

Let's take a moment to look at Gideon who was secretly threshing wheat in a winepress trying to hide from the Midianites who were stealing from the Israelites. The angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oat tree and spoke to Gideon in Judges 6:12 and said, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior". Before we hear anything of Gideon in Judges chapters 6-8 he was going about his everyday business of providing for family and trying to survive the attacks of the Midianites. Something to note is he did not come from a godly family (Judges 6:25b), however God had his eyes on him and saw his heart. Heb. 11:32-34 refers to Gideon amongst those "whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies."

Gideon's fear and hesitation was as real as his obedience. With adrenaline pumping, Gideon and 300 men fought the Midianites. Even when the exhaustion was beginning to set in Gideon continued until the mission was complete. Once the battle was done Gideon went back home to his wives and children until he died at "a good old age". Gideon is not mentioned again in the bible until the faith chapter in Hebrews 11. Interesting.

Sometimes God is calling us for such a time as this. Sometimes it lasts for a short while or certain event - like Gideon; and sometimes it's drawn out over many years - like Moses leading the people out of Egypt.

When God speaks to you, step out of your everyday routine to make a difference in the eternal. Boldly and confidently know that many others have gone before you; and many will follow your lead. Then be thankful for the everyday routines which keep us balanced so we are ready for the next time God speaks.

Jo-Ann