Nondescript, yet funky, the bookstore stood as a refuge from the mad world careening by, just beyond its plate glass windows. It was a tranquil setting, an oasis for those who wished to revel in a few moments of self-indulgence. Sentinel like, the books upon the shelves silently supported each other as if tired from the thoughts and passages of time. Yet, under the watchful eye of the shop proprietor, the recorded nuances and reflections of life offered beckoning pages of picture and word to the seeker.
She entered in a charming and expressive way, full of life and spontaneity. In the proffered silence, amid the racks of books something caught her attention. Bending low to examine the treasure of her pursuit, an embarrassing and all resounding resonance of ripping material cascaded off the shop walls echoing in the ears of those caressing their literary choice. Caught in an unredeemable predicament, the young woman stood up and in an audible yet, unflappable voice asked “…and the diet section would be?”
For better or for worse the unexpected is always present. It is an unpredictable force that seems to demand our attention. Potentially delightful, but at times equally disruptive it can test to the core. Whether through curiosity, challenge, anger or opportunity, taking ownership of such moments and turning them into stages of nurture and growth is paramount. Such is especially prudent for the Christian, for by proclaiming a belief, a faith and a story, moments of awkwardness, embarrassment and even fear will beckon throughout the pages and chapters of life. It is our call, our mandate and our mission to respond with discernment, purpose, knowledge and wit, thereby offering witness to God through Christ with unflappable grace, proclaiming the eternal title on the book of life “…to God be the glory!”