Mystery of the Spirit's Leading

     I've been reading lately in the book of Acts, and reflecting on the mysterious ways in which the Holy Spirit led those early believers.  Today's passage in Acts l6 described how Paul and his companions tried to enter a place called Bithynia, "but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to."  That night, Paul had a vision which propelled him to discern that God had called them to go to Macedonia.
      I know so many Christians in transition these days - men and women seeking to discern the next step in their lives and ministry.  Some have been laid off from a ministry role they assumed they'd fill for decades.  Others simply feel a sense of restlessness, sensing God is up to something but they don't know what just yet.  I'm not exactly in that place right now - but I've certainly been there before.  It's unsettling.  If we're not careful, we go to an anxious place and we look for signs everywhere that might signal a message from heaven.  Listening to God - really listening - is one of the most challenging aspects in my spiritual adventure.
      Sometimes (and oh how we love these times!), the Spirit is crystal clear.  I recall my calling to first assume the leadership role of the arts ministry at Willow, about 25 years ago.  I had wrestled with God for about two months, praying, fasting, trying to discern what He would have me do.  And then the whisper just came.  I absolutely knew I was supposed to take the leap.  That firm and clear calling served me well during the eras when I SO wanted to quit, give up, escape, go somewhere warm...I was deeply grateful for the clarity of God's direction at that juncture.
      But often, we don't receive the gift of such clarity.  I have faced turning points when after much seeking for God's mysterious will, the only thing I seem to hear is permission to choose from good options.  There are times I believe God doesn't have such a specific will, and many valid choices exist where we can make a difference and flourish.  I wish it was always clear.  But in many ways I think I've matured more when I have had to make a decision with the best information available, trusting that God would walk with me in it and believing that if He truly had a preferred plan, he would not play hide and seek with me.  A loving Father doesn't make it that hard.  If I'm listening and there's something to be heard, I believe He is more than able to send me a message.
      So to all those facing transitions, choices, decisions - my hope for you is that you will seek hard after God, knowing that it's possible He will not give you a crystal clear choice.  He has promised to give us a peace that passes understanding.  May that be enough for you today...