It has been a long time since I have ventured into my favorite coffee shop, Mocha Monkey. It feels like an old well worn pair of slippers. It is a familiar place. As I walked up to the counter I was greeted with “Hi Craig, bottomless today?” There is something to be said for the familiar. Familiar can make life easier. For many years going out for lunch at a new restaurant, and selecting lunch from a new and unfamiliar menu was simple. If there was a French dip on the menu, my ordering issue was over.
BUT, I have also discovered that sticking with the familiar has left me missing out on many tasty menu choices. By driving the UNfamiliar routes, I have discovered beautiful vistas I might have missed, and even new places to stop for lunch!
Lately my life has been filled with lots of new and unfamiliar. Working retail, starting my own business, preaching at various churches, heading out on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic, and adjusting to life in a new neighborhood are a few of the new and unfamiliar experiences in my life. Today I am writing from a new computer which is running Windows 8. I know in time I will feel comfortable with it but I’m not there yet. I long for the familiar. It was nice when I knew all the short cuts; when I knew simple things like how to close programs.
In my world of new and unfamiliar I rejoice in a changeless Savior who loves to go with me into the new and unfamiliar.
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
<>< Craig