Unraveling at the Seams
The tickle on my leg soon became a great irritation. I continued what I was doing, but often reaching down to brush, scratch or grab whatever was tickling me. I never slowed long enough to see what it was, but it felt like a hair or a spider web that surely could be brushed away. The last determined swipe finally grasped a now two foot long string. The beautiful lace trim drooped to my ankles, and there I stood about twenty minutes into unraveling my new gown.
Now I had a bigger irritation, an unraveling gown and no sewing machine to stitch it. Months later it lies rolled up and shoved to the back of the shelf. The annoying thread could easily have been tied off, irritant gone and gown intact.
I often ignore the little threads that lead to living an unraveled life. It’s not the huge things that I can see coming, but the little unseen things dangling. I’m sure you don’t need my list, but here it goes anyway. Ringing phone or chiming messages, alerts, computer stalls and red lights impeding my hurry. Unanswered questions. Lingering unfinished to do lists. Weariness and fatigue. Quick temper and leaking heart. Aching neck and shaking hands. Restless and worried.
There is a common thread in it all. I need a place to breathe and recalibrate. I need to pause and tie off the thread in a knot that reminds me He is the one in charge of this life. A pause to recognize what is unraveling my peace, joy, patience and yes, love.
Sometimes I just need a holy nap. Yes, I said holy. I remember in my early years I was ashamed when I took a nap; now I know it is part of tying the knot. At other times, I find that I am hungry in need of healthy food, or lethargic in need of exercise.
But often I find I am much in need of slipping away and seeking the Spirit of God to reveal what is truly going on. I invite Him into this place with me to speak truth to my heart. I‘m always in need of a fresh intake of the Bread of Life and refreshing Living Water. But He is always gracious to show where anxiety, procrastination, offense, judgment or unforgiveness is unraveling me.
When God shows my unraveling heart, my response to Him is crucial. As I agree with Him, He brings healing, stitching my heart back to wholeness.
The tickling thread is the hint that something is going on.
Pause! Take notice. Invite Him in.
Find space to breathe and let Him tie the knot before you put yourself on the shelf missing His purpose and plan for your life today.
“Catch all the foxes, those little foxes, before they ruin the vineyard of love, for the grapevines are blossoming!” (Song of Solomon 2:15)
“You’ve always given me breathing room, a place to get away from it all,
A lifetime pass to your safe-houseman open invitation as your guest.
You’ve always taken me seriously, God, made me welcome among those who know and love you.” (Psalm 61:3-5 Message)