Disruptions and Disturbances

Copperhead! My friend Jim was riding about 10 yards ahead of me on the single track mountain bike trail when I noticed him swerve just a bit to the side to avoid the brilliantly colored coils right in the middle of the trail. I too was able to avoid the snake- passing by quickly to it's right...... but if you know me...... you know I can never resist an opportunity to get a better look at a snake. I grew up close to the river and as a teen would spend countless hours tromping in the woods, fishing and you guessed it....... catching snakes. Anyway, back to story- I immediately pulled my bike over and rushed back to get a better look. What I saw next was nothing short of amazing- What we thought was a snake turned out to actually be 2 snakes in the middle of .....well.....making baby snakes! In fact these 2 were actually quite intent on making baby snakes- so much so that when we scooped one up on the end of a branch to toss it off the trail- the other was so joined to it- that even with one snake's entire body weight dangling, they did not seperate. These snakes refused to be disrupted or disturbed! So here's the question- What is God doing to disrupt or disturb me these days? Is there anyhing I am so connected to- so intent on- that even though it's for my own good- God's disruptions are ignored? (It is not good- for snakes or riders- that snakes would be copulating on well used bike paths) Am I taking heed of His disruptions and disturbances? His disruptions can come in seemingly small ways. One of my students comes by when I am in the middle of lunch. I read something like Matthew 5:44 where Jesus tells me to Love my enemies. Or there may be larger disruptions God allows. Sickness, Job Loss or Problems with my kids. I tell you- I am often so intent on my own way that God must really disturb me - do or allow a drastic disruption- to get my attention- to get me to do the work that leads to wholeness and healing and finding the life He has for me. Many times- no truthfully most times- I would really rather be left alone- even if the next thing that comes down the path might run me over. Father in Heaven- Lord Jesus- Do what You will to disrupt me- move me- into a more committed recovery from my addiction to sin and self and pride. Thank You for disturbances and disruptions. Move in me for the courage to examine, surrender and repent. Amen