Metro Musings

As someone who slides into the car, switches on my previously downloaded podcast, releases the break as soon as the windscreen has defogged enough only to see out of if I crunch my body in half - and proceeds to the fastest route with the least traffic, allowing for variables such as rubbish day, school holidays and cricket matches all so I can get to the free park I desire - it's proximity to work affording me just the right amount of time to accomplish the necessary life admin and indulge in social pleasantries before the start of my shift - catching the bus to work has been an eye opening experience. 

Once I climb those steps into the warm quiet of the 95, I relinquish control. I’m on this ride. Sure I could get off at any stop, but I know it is going where I need to be - so I’m intentionally surrendering my time, my will and my perceived security. I put my trust in the driver of this bus to chose the appropriate route, the speed in which we go, the detours we take, the pauses to allow people to get on and off. Sometimes I look up and have no idea what random back street we are on. But I, like everyone else on this bus, have chosen to be contently confidant that the driver will get us where we need to go. 

I’m led to reflect on my journey with Jesus - how I naturally lean towards the perceived security of a vehicle I believe I’m in control of, in which I drive in solitude, with my preferences adjusted for. To me , a private vehicle offers security - a safety net if you will, in the unlikely event that I need to rush home for a sick child, or evacuate the city quickly. 

However I find myself drawn to the freedom the bus offers. A different version of security in the form of letting go, or surrending and practicing trust into the most trustworthy. This ride gives me space to think, to stare out the window while I digest my breakfast, time to do life admin - and even to slow down enough to read, write, think and create. I enjoy the presence of others and being offered a small window to their morning routines. 

In reality there is nothing in my power that will ever make me able to control all the variables that will affect the mode of transport I choose, so in the end it’s simply up to me to chose whether I drive, or trust the driver. 

Loving Creator, you are the way, the truth and the life. We don’t have the answers, we like to think we are in control, but You know it’s a fruitless exercise.

Holy Father please show us where we are holding too tightly to the things that won’t bring life - show us where we can release our grip to uncover the joy of the ride you have planned for us - the ride in which we trust you to drive the bus - taking us where we need to be.