Relief

I have noticed something lately.

It seems that just about everything comes in cycles. There is a very circular motion to life. In some cases it is good. It's nice to come back to Spring every year and know that there will be relief from the cold of winter. Fall is a welcome break from what seems like the neverending heat of summer.

Then there are the times that it's not so good. I think of the Israelites wandering the desert for 40 years. I have heard theories that they were simply going in circles, until they could get it right.

Lately, I feel like they must have felt. I wish I could just get it right! I say a harsh word, think a wrong thought, don't give everything over to God. Why do I continue to think that I can handle things? Then, why am I surprised when I keep coming back to the same lessons? I heard a pastor say once that there are no F's in the lessons God gives us. Instead, we just keep taking the test until we get it right.

However, sometimes during the lesson process, we feel relief. God allows a window to open into the stuffy test room. A cool breeze touches your face and you remember that it's not forever.

I am thankful for the seasons of relief.