2 Timothy 4:2

"Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction" 2 Timothy 4:2.

Last night Todd and smiled as we celebrated the prospect of sleeping in this morning. Todd didn't have school or any other commitments, and my schedule was also free. We were hoping the boys would sleep until about 7, maybe 8. Then our plan was to bring them into our room, turn on Seseme Street and doze a little longer. I always find it interesting how we get so excited about the plans that we make, only to see them drastically change. It is a good thing we were ready.

At 7:30 this morning, Todd's cell phone rang, but he couldn't get to it in time. As he was checking the voicemail, it rang again. Todd answered it and heard our friend Cheryl crying on the other end. Apparently her husband and their four children had gotten into a car accident on their way to the donut shop. She was at the scene, he had been taken away by ambulance, and she needed help. NOW! I immediately called my neighbor, who also has four kids the same age (thus having appropriate car seats), borrowed her van, and sped off to the scene. On my way there, I called a different friend to get directions. Todd grabbed the boys and headed for Cheryl's house.

Cheryl was relieved to see me pull up, ready to transport all of her kids to safety. I followed her back to her house, gave her a big hug, and let her know we would be able to help if she needed us the rest of the day. Her husband called us later in the day to let us know that while he was banged up and had a broken rib, he was alright and very appreciative of our help.

The point of the story is we need to be prepared, both when the times are good and when they are difficult. It is a lot easier to be prepared when the weather is nice, the wallet is full of cash, relationships are flourishing, all of your needs are met, etc... However, it is not as easy when you are facing life's toubles head on. Either way, though, we need to be prepared both for the "unexpected car crash".

There have been many times when I have been out of season and unprepared. It is unfortunate that I was not ready to do God's work. God could have used me in so many ways if I had only been focused and attentive. What about you? Are you prepared? Are you ready to get up and go at a moment's notice?

I am thankful for...
1. my family getting together at my mom and dad's house for a big Christmas celebration...we=ish we could have been there.
2. my neighbor letting me use her van.
3. Amy telling me where Marvin and Ardrey Kell intersect.
4. Todd making super nachos for dinner.
5. God granted me a spirit of contentment during this possible hectic time of year. I am amazed at what I manage to accomplish with relative ease.
6. cell phones.
7. that Ron is okay.
8. sleeping boys.
9. Saturday nights with Todd.
10. peaceful feelings.