Plot Twist

My husband has the “unfortunate” ability to predict the outcome of movies and TV shows.  He is rarely surprised by a plot twist; somehow he instinctively knows who the bad guys are and what will happen before it happens.  Sometimes I will ask “Have you seen this before?” His answer is “No, it just makes sense.”  And normally within a few minutes, it happens just as he has predicted.

Me–I’m perfectly content not knowing ahead of time, and being surprised as the story unfolds–at least when we’re talking movies or TV.

However, when it comes to retreat or event planning, I prefer NO surprises. I appreciate being able to predict the course of events, and to plan ahead for any contingencies or unforeseen glitches.  Of course, we do try to anticipate potential problems and plan for them.  But there are always “plot twists” — things that come up that are totally unpredictable and out of our control.  A speaker gets ill at the last minute; the venue makes a last-minute change; the equipment doesn’t work or is incompatible; a skit prop doesn’t make it to the venue; or, at the very least, you have a bad hair day…  You can pretty much count on something happening.

We’ve been there many times.  My advice? Remember that what we consider a “plot twist” was ultimately orchestrated by our loving Father, who is in control. Do your best and commit the rest. These “plot twists” are not a surprise to Him.  Sometimes I think God allows something unpredictable so that He can work in a new way in our midst, and then He will get the glory.