Stumble-Free Moments

When was the last time you noticed obstacles just fall away before your eyes?

Woe to the world because of stumbling blocks! Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to the one by whom the stumbling block comes! - Matthew 17:7

In today's Gospel reading, Jesus talks about stumbling blocks.  I believe we are quick to notice when someone throws an obstacle in our path.  But are we as quick to see when the opposite happens?

Do we pay attention to those moments when obstacles seem to just disappear?

So much of our technology these days helps us avoid delays, from GPS to reminders on our phones, that we may begin to take these things for granted.

We expect smooth sailing, an obstacle-free journey through life.  So, when people take the effort to help us move quickly through, we accept it as normal.  But if someone makes our wait in line longer, of fails to make a turn in time for us to make the light, we lose it.

Well, today, I would like to focus on those who do small things for others without seeking credit or reward.

Over the past few weeks, many anonymous benefactors have donated clothing, food, money and time to help people they don't know have one or more obstacles removed form their paths.

They have helped create stumble-free moments, brief times in the day when nothing causes people to stumble and fall.

I believe that should be our goal in life, to make the road more bearable, less threatening or difficult.

So, today, as we go about our daily routine, look for evidence of people removing obstacles from your path.  They may be simple gestures, like waving you on at an intersection, or helping you carry a bag to your car, or picking up your napkin when it falls.

These are the stumble-free moments given as a gift by someone you may or may not know.  And if you smile and acknowledge their acts, it will remain with you as a reminder that you can do the same for someone else.

That's how we pass along the love that is given to us.

But if we fail to see these as gifts, we will fail to avoid the obstacles in our path and we will stumble, grumbling all the way down.

So, enjoy those minor stumble-free moments and know that you are not alone.

More to come...