Divine detour to Dallas

As many of you know, I will begin my seminary journey in a little more than two months (whoa!). I had plans set for moving and taking care of all that needed to be handled. But, God had other plans. I had every intention to travel along the east coast to see relatives before making the big move, but God had me leave my home in Maryland almost two months earlier than I had planned. I couldn't figure out why God was doing this...and He no doubt gave me clear instructions to leave my job and move all of my things TWO MONTHS EARLY. But what I couldn't see was this early departure was part of a decision I made earlier this year.

In mid February, I began a healing journey with the Lord. It was something that would have happen eventually, but how and when it happened was up to me. God was willing to help me, but I needed to want to help myself. Anyway...when I first started this healing journey the obvious happened: God dealt with ME first! He definitely dealt with some attitudes and habits that I had, but also showed me the root of many of those attitudes and habits. The biggest change needed was my view of myself and truly seeing myself through God's eyes. That was a challenge. And God had to place me in certain (and at times painful) situations that forced me to see things through His eyes. But, after dealing with me, dealing with my relationships came next. One relationship that I treasure that was broken in certain ways was with my dad.

Actually, my father and I have always had a great relationship, but it has occurred via telephone and e-mail for the last 16 years. We definitely share similar personality types, but things have happened that built a huge wedge between us. In the last two years he has allowed God to show him some of the things He's doing in my life and the type of support I need. I'm grateful that my dad was receptive to God's vision because THAT has opened the door for healing in our relationship. I didn't, however, notice God's purpose until a week ago.

When I arrived to my father's house I intended to stay just a week or so, visit my grandparents for another week then drive down to Dallas. I was working with the housing department there trying to figure out a way to get me into my apartment a month early. Two weeks went by and I had not heard from the housing department. At that point I got frustrated, but then just asked God "Ok, what are you trying to show me, Lord?" I got so frustrated, there were mornings I didn't even want to get out of bed...especially if I woke up and didn't have an e-mail from the housing department with any news. But, last Sunday morning during my prayer time God gave me two options. One, I could go to Dallas the first of July, and that would not be a problem. Or two, I could stay with my father for the next month and enjoy connecting and sharing with him. The very next day, I received an e-mail with the option to move into an apartment between the last weekend in June and the first weekend in July.

Decisions, decisions! LOL. Well, I chose option number two! And believe me when I say that choice was a leap of faith for me. I've never really lived with my father growing up, so I was initially leery of what could happen in the next month while I'm here. But, God assured me that everything I need (and want) is already taken care of...both while I'm here and when I move.

Healing is a wonderful thing, but it truly is a process. And I'm so glad I allowed God to begin this process inside me when I did. There were so many parts of the "old" me  - thoughts I had to let go of, past hurts I had to forgive and things I needed to seek forgiveness for - I just don't want to take to Dallas with me. Don't misunderstand, I'm not done with this process, but I truly see myself in a different light now. And when I'm places in hurtful situations I see an opportunity to respond with a healed and whole spirit! I know this new perspective will enhance my experiences with the people God places in my life as I continue my journey with Him. I'm so ready for what He has next!!  :-D