A classy grandmother trailed three very energetic and joyful girls on their way to swim team practice. I am guessing at least one was her granddaughter and -- by the contentment, peace and joy on her face -- it was easy to conclude her presence with them was a choice, not a chore.
She commented that the days since her retirement were racing by and she was enjoying every one; especially with her family. Reflecting on her professional and retired life as they intertwined with her family she said, "There are no do-overs." Softer and more contemplative than before she repeated, "There are no do-overs," as she peered after the girls scampering down the stairs headed to the pool.
I understood her to mean if you spend time at work when you could have been with family it is time you will never have again. It may be unavoidable, but special moments may be missed. That particular baseball game, dance recital, or school function will not be repeated. Whether faultless or flawed that particular experience is history and wishing you were present will not change the outcome or opportunity to be in that moment together. Whether you did or did not cheer a loved one on, gave the gift of presence, or was present to lift them up physically or emotionally after they faltered is past. I think she wistfully remembered times lost whether by choice or necessity as she looked after the girls and softly said, "There are no do-overs." I, also, think she felt gratitude remembering times it was difficult to choose family over work but she did anyway.
The Teacher in Ecclesiastes said, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." Also, there is God's way and my way. The former brings blessings, while the latter spells trouble and the desire for do-overs.
King David counted how many fighting men he had, knowing God did not want him to do so. His insistence on doing things his way caused three days of plague to fall upon the nation. His sin affected not just himself, but everyone around him. David would know more blessings later in life, but for the moment life was hit hard with the consequences of his sin.
The scene mirrors that of the nation during the Exodus from Egypt. While Moses was receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai the people forgot their commitment and relationship with Yaweh. They turned from following God to indulging their senses with food, wild partying, and sexual carousing. The consequences were death and disease for many. Nevertheless, some finally did walk into the Promised Land.
God says through the writer of Lamentations He will send new blessings every morning. Whether those blessings are continuous or interspersed with the consequences of sin, not following the direction of an all-loving and wise God is entirely up to us.
-- Dr. Randy Rowlan is pastor of First United Methodist Church. Comments are welcomed at [email protected]. The opinions expressed are those of the author.
Religion on 04/29/2015