Michel: What phase are you in today?

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, July 13, 2022

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It was my kind of weekend. I watched three granddaughters compete in the Swimming Down Santa Claus Lane Invitational in Vacherie. Despite the Christmas in July themed décor, music and costumes, it was hot, but the La Vacherie Swim Club were incredible hosts, and their food is truly the best!

Sunday was spent cheering for many swimmers; however, my eyes were mostly drawn to Charlie, Olivia and Adeline. My granddaughters participated in the finals and none of them disqualified which is a huge accomplishment. In addition, Adeline earned the third place high point trophy for the 9-10 age group.

One of the events Adeline and Olivia competed in was the 100-meter Individual Medley.  Swimmers start off swimming Butterfly for 25 meters, Backstroke for the next, Breaststroke for the third, and finish the final 25 meters swimming Freestyle. If endurance and speed weren’t challenging enough, athletes must swim the strokes in the correct order. To do otherwise would result in disqualification.

I thought of my own life and how dependent I am upon God to coach me during each phase. There was a lap when I taught, another parenting small children, one which combined the first two, and now the grandparenting mode. Teaching Bible studies and various volunteering roles were woven into most phases. At one point of overextending myself, I felt God’s instruction, “There are a lot of things you’re able to do, but only do what I’m asking of you right now.”

What phase are you in today? If you’re not sure, ask God. His Word in Psalm 32:8 promises, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”

 

Ronny Michel can be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.