In a world where we are doing our best to be bloggers, parents, employees, students and/or teachers we are people who are often pressed upon by time and responsibility.  One of the ways that many of us deal with this situation is to be people with plans.  We plan the day, the week, meals, outings, family time, social time, writing projects and their time lines. As we refer to our “books” and “schedules” I sometimes think that we have gotten to a place where we almost develop an exaggerated sense of importance based on how many pages in the book are completely filled in.  I once knew a woman who actually kept her personal calendar by cutting out squares the same size as the squares on the day runner and regularly glued them in to make corrections or additions to her plans.  It’s easy to get caught up in that whirlwind.

Plans are a funny thing.  Do we lead them or do they lead us?  When I was working, I regularly kept six separate briefcases in the front hall because I got tired of moving materials from one spot to another and then forgetting a critical sheet along the way.  When we think about planning we too often forget that “plans” are not something that we rule over or control.   Most people I know make plans that will “fit in” or lend to their own convenience.

In the big picture, that could be a mistake.  Like so many things in our world  we often develop a sense of trying to control the circumstances of our life.  Sometimes that doesn’t work out so well. When was the last time you asked God what His plans were for you?  If the answer to that question is never, not at all or I’m not important enough for God to have a plan, give that point of view another consideration:   “I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for your woe!  Plans to give you a future full of hope.” (Jer 29:11)   This scripture always takes my breath away.  Not only is God thinking about each of each moment, but he wants us to move into a future full of promise.

It is most likely true that you probably won’t get an e-mail or text with the specifics of His plan for you.  Dialog with the Lord is a skill that takes practice.  If we consider this scripture, however, how could you not want more information?  Develop your prayer discipline and spend time with Him.  Don’t be afraid to ask Him what his plans are for you.  After all, when was the last time you had an idea that was better that God’s?

 

Kathryn is a retired junior high teacher. A convert with a love for the Church she believes that its teachings have a more than viable application for today's world. She writes practical theological for the people in the pews believing that they have as much right to good catechesis as our youth and converts. Her writings appear on Catholic web sites and local Church publications. She has even been published in the diocese of Australia and most recemtly Zenit. Kathryn holds a Master's in Theology and is a certified spiritual director. Learn more about Kathryn at: www.atravelersview.org

One Reply to “Plans”

  1. I remember when people asked if we planned to have any more kids….Russ and I would answer, “NO!” simultaneously! Then we heard someone mention asking God about how many kids to have. For the first time it hit us that He might have something to say about that. The rest is history….five more kids since then, and so glad He “has plans to prosper and not to harm” us!

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