I’m going somewhere I’ve never been today.

I did that twice before in this couple or few years that feel like breaking through.

Hashtag following the number 17, not so much to proclaim the astounding that has occurred or will.

More a reference, like reconciling budget, profit, loss, bottom line reflecting an increase.

Last week, I read of how God just wants to be with me in the process.

That the far reaching, wildly aspirational goals proclaimed to be acclaimed matter so very, very little to Him.

Who are we to know?

No, He desires to be in the dailies. He desires a consistent turning of our heads in a nod of affirmation, like a morning fist pump that says “You and me, let’s go!”

In a few days I get to share a devotional here as a guest post. I was surprised to be selected just like I am surprised every single time someone commissions a painting or comments here that my words rang true.

Believe me, if you know me you already do believe…

these are opportunities neither the me I am now nor the former little girl lost or grown up girl running would have ever expected.

Every morning, I write it out.
Bless me.
Enlarge my borders.
Keep me from harm, the prayer of Jabez.

Day 16, the chapter of Draw the Circle, 40 Day Prayer Challenge, called “Lord, Surprise Me” talks of the wind blowing as it pleases. It’s a calculated decision, intentional in abandonment.

I’ve prayed this way too.

But, not always wholeheartedly.

Crazy, ’cause I do love surprises.

Prayers I’ve prayed have been more pleading, more distraught, more at a loss not expecting any gain just simply level ground to settle.

I’ve prayed, begging for relief for another, my son, my daughter, myself…give them something good today, something that will bring a smile, cause them to notice you.

Lord, show me, us, them your glory…please!

Once, I prayed that prayer and it resulted in a hammering line drive in a losing game.

Another time, a cherished wish and hopeful goal becoming opportunity that had been forsaken.

But, today and more days to come, I will pray,

“Lord, surprise me.” and my prayer will be lifted up and it will lead me to places and people and moments that will be divine, God’s spirit in me giving more reason to call the year “breakthrough”.

“The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”
‭‭John‬ ‭3:8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Today, I get to go to a place I’ve never been.

My eyes become moist at the thought of what God has for me there, and from there.

The wind pushing me, prodding at my back from where I was, fearful I might come to rest there.