Smoke Signals

Here in Ontario, the transition from winter to what we call spring resembles a dance with a flirtatious girl who is cold one minute and steamy the next. People dare not put their winter clothes away until at least two consecutive weeks of sweltering weather have passed--for fear that there could yet be a snow storm.

Just as the hot weather set in for good this year--the air-conditioning on my car broke down. I tried to do without it--but arriving at meetings feeling hot and crumpled--with a red and shiny face--drove me to the car dealership, especially after an ominous rattling sound set in under the hood.

I was relieved to find out that the noise was related to the air-conditioning compressor, but since replacing it is expensive I decided to take a couple of days to consider my options before committing. There was a smell of burning plastic as I drove, but having had the car checked out gave me a sense of security.

On Saturday I set out in the heat of the afternoon, for Newmarket, and after a while I noticed a burning smell again. A pick up truck passed me and the young man in the passenger seat was waving at me. I realized he was signalling to me to pull off the road.

On the soft shoulder I got out and walked around the car and noticed smoke streaming from under the hood.

I was grateful for a cell phone and CAA. Soon a tow truck and my knight in shining armour--Paul--were on their way and my car was headed for the dealership again...smoke has a way of getting your attention.

My friend vented her anger and frustration as she described a stand-off with a neighbour. The neighbour is planning a project that will have a significant impact on them in terms of noise level--and right below her bedroom window.

The fight has become less about the hot tub they are planning to build, and more about attitudes.

"What kind of Christians are you anyway?" the neighbbour had yelled after their latest encounter.

"That's when I saw red and really let her have it," said my friend, this morning at church. We both saw the irony as she wiped away the tears of frustration.

Smoke signals...sometimes it's a good idea to pull over and fix what's going on under the hood before driving on-- when it comes to relationships, as well as cars.

Hebrews 13:20-21 (New Living Translation)
20 Now may the God of peace—
who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus,
the great Shepherd of the sheep,
and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood—
21 may he equip you with all you need
for doing his will.
May he produce in you,
through the power of Jesus Christ,
every good thing that is pleasing to him.
All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.