Life Unfolds

While I am not a big movie fan, there are a few that stand out as memorable and an even a fewer number that have unforgettable lines.  One of those unforgettable lines comes from Tom Hank's character in "Castaway."  Often have been the times when I have repeated the remembered words, "Who knows what the tide will bring?"  It was a word which kept the castaway going to the next day and so has it served me as well.  It is a word of hope for those overwhelming and impossible to handle days. 

 

It also brings to mind something from Celtic spirituality.  One of the images created within its teachings is the idea that life is constantly unfolding before us.  Instead of aggressively seeking what is to come, or instead of forcing our plans on the future, Celtic spirituality calls us to live with trust in the One who is bringing life to us.  The image of life as something which is unfolding before us has  become a powerful image that enables life to be lived with both hope and confidence. 

 

Of course, the image of life unfolding is not so different from our more traditional and orthodox belief that God leads us into the future of our life.  This more traditional image also involves trusting in God to carry us forward into the future even as does the word about life unfolding.  If we live with the assurance that life unfolds before us, we are enabled to live with expectancy and hope.  It is also a word that calls us to live with a patience that trusts God to be the provider and sustainer the Word declares Him to be.