Stubbornly ingrained in the male psyche, is a hidden angst that rises quickly to the surface when an unexpected, orange, diamond-shaped sign is spotted along one of our nation’s highways. We have already calculated our approximate time of arrival. The challenge is accepted and the quest is undertaken—even if only in our own minds.

Upon arrival, we expect questions, especially from our male counterparts. “When did you leave?” or “How long did it take for you to get here?” Trying not to sound proud, we answer in general terms; but, if pressed, we could supply the exact number of hours and minutes.

Leaving on time is important but the clock doesn’t start until the actual time of departure. So, everyone must use the bathroom before we leave, whether they need to or not, because we are not stopping until we need gas. Using the bathroom during that stop is permitted. But, it must be quick—very quick!

Slow drivers, congested traffic, and speed limits are expected annoyances. But, the orange sign warning of construction ahead—that is, indeed, a foreboding sight. And, should traffic come to a complete stop; it isn’t long before folks start bailing out like rats from a sinking ship. After all, a twenty-minute side trip to avoid a five-minute delay is well-worth the effort!

Construction has its purpose. Repair and maintenance prevents long-term damage and even longer delays in the future. We understand that building new highways and expanding old ones is the price of progress.

As Christians, our lives are under construction. It is not man; but, God who is at work in us (Ph. 2:13). We are His workmanship (Eph. 2:10). Christ is being formed in us (Gal. 4:19; Rm. 8:29). We are not transformed by the tap of a magic wand or by drinking some sort of mysterious potion. Our progress can be slow at times as we translate his word into our daily lives (Rm. 12:1-2). Other times, things can look a mess as we unravel mixed up priorities and put Jesus back in His rightful place (Col. 1:18; Mt. 6:33). Endurance must be cultivated through difficult times (Jas. 1:2-4). But, we are closer now than when we first believed and our destination becomes ever clearer before us (Rm. 13:11; Heb. 10:36).

Please don’t give up or give in because of construction along the way. It is the price of spiritual progress. We are not alone (Heb. 13:5-6). We are working together with God (2 Cor. 6:1). The path, at times, may seem obscure; but, it is set before us and we must take the step that is “next.” In doing so, we walk by faith knowing that God is making something beautiful of our lives.

–Glen Elliott–