Around this time last year, my youngest daughter was competing in a 4 day homeschool speech and debate tournament about 75 miles from our house. We drove back and forth each day through a major construction project for about 13 miles on the highway. The kind of construction where they had narrow lanes with concrete barriers on each side—no shoulder.
When the storm hits
As it seemed to be the usual thing during every winter/spring tournament, there was a snowstorm that started shortly before we left for home one of the evenings. That meant we had to drive home during the storm, through that construction area with the narrow lanes, which was stressful enough driving through during the day with sunshine. I’m used to driving in the snow, but this was HEAVY. And it was dark. It was late. And there was construction. I couldn’t see the road. And I was afraid.
The snow wasn’t really sticking to the road yet, I just couldn’t see the road. I prayed. And prayed and prayed that I could see to stay on the road. That we would arrive safely home. And then I found myself behind a Target semitruck. The truck’s iconic bullseye on the back was clear enough through my frantic wipers. Seeing it as an answer to my prayer, I locked on to that truck like glue. I could not see the road at all, but I could see that bullseye. And whenever it changed lanes, I changed lanes. I was going a little faster than I was comfortable, but I knew that keeping up with this truck was my way through this storm and home.
I was white knuckling it the whole time and caught myself holding my breath as I focused only on the back of that truck. As we got nearer to home and over the continental divide, the snow lessened and I could see better. I started breathing again and loosened my grip on the steering wheel. The Target truck turned off shortly thereafter and I was actually sad to see him go. I felt like we had bonded over this experience! But I was so thankful for that truck driver and God for leading the way out of the storm.
Visual Aid
This visual aid was not lost on me. During the storms of life with circumstances swirling around threatening to overwhelm and not knowing what to do, this was a reminder to keep my eyes on my Savior—my target —that would lead me through it all. I might have to do some scary things or go faster than I was comfortable, but I would make it through whatever storm came my way if I stayed close and kept my focus on my Lord. Every time I see a Target truck now, I’m reminded of God’s faithfulness.
He’s Got You!
So, no matter what’s going on around you, keep your eyes on Jesus!
Even when you don’t know how your going to pay your bills this month, keep your eyes on Jesus!
Even when it seems like everyone in your house has been sick for the last 3 months, keep your eyes on Jesus!
Even when you are trapped in a toxic marriage and you can’t even get out of bed to face your life, keep your eyes on Jesus!
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 (NIV)
Don’t lose hope, Lovely—He’s got you!
