The roads around Glasgow just now are difficult to navigate, with road works, road closures and diversions. That yellow diversion sign can strike fear into any driver, as the organisers seem to delight in omitting one sign from the sequence.  All too often, you are on a diverted road, and then you come up to a roundabout and there is no sign. Does that mean you go straight on, or do you guess. There seems to be no rhyme or reason to it, and surprisingly, following the car in front doesn’t always work! And so you can end up many miles from where you are trying to go.

The other evening, following another glorious detour, I found myself in the most gorgeous countryside. It was so beautiful and previously unknown to me. I decided that this detour had had a good outcome.

Sometimes we think we know where we are going in life. We have an idea of our direction- but then it doesn’t work out. Something unexpected happens, and we have to take a different path. It can be upsetting and unnerving- even scary.

The encouraging thing is that when we are questioning or uncertain, I think that is when God draws particularly close. And He guides us. In Isaiah 41 verse 10 it says:

‘Fear not, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.‘

When we are lost, or setting out in a new direction, God takes us by the hand and strengthens us. We are not alone, we are seen and loved and protected. It might be a difficult path- I need to be real- that happens. Yet God gives us grace and sometimes along the way, we find such unexpected  beauty and inspiration. We are thankful that God walks with us on our journey.

Gracious God, You love to guide the footsteps of your children with the tender care of the very best Father. Sometimes we  get lost, or get tired and stumble. Yet you pick us up, and refresh our spirits. You give us a moment to rest, and restore our purpose. Lord Jesus you were with the two disciples on the Emmaus road, but it took them a while to recognise You. May we trust that You are with us, even when we do not sense your presence. Holy spirit, guide us into the path of your choosing, and help us know that nothing is wasted, no experience is beyond your grace. May we trust that even in the detours, You can reveal beauty, purpose and hope. Thank you, Lord God, Amen.