August 25, 2006

You weren’t overlooked last week, I was on vacation. As a result I have vivid images of kelp, barnacles, gulls and seals in my head. Kelly’s dream for the past several months has been to kayak in the San Juan Islands. So we did. It’s funny how we can overlook so many details when we dream.

One detail Kelly overlooked was the enormity of the ocean when compared to a tiny kayak. We’ve enjoyed lakes, rivers, sloughs and estuaries. This was our first experience in real open water. The night before our big day trip anxiety set in for her. Orcas in her head produced butterflies in her stomach.

Our trip took us around the south end of Lopez Island. We benefited from checking the current tables and used the changing tides to our advantage. We checked the wind forecast and assured ourselves we’d be back before the weather changed. We put our baby in a long, sleek boat and wondered if we were up to this adventure.

It was absolutely everything we had hoped for. (except no whales spotted) We enjoyed fun water, spectacular scenery, good company, inquisitive seals, regal eagles, perfect weather. I’m thankful my wife is a dreamer. I’d most likely not have these memories otherwise. I’m thankful I have an attention to detail. Before we launched our boats I had a pretty good idea of the conditions and was assured we had prepared as best as we could.

Progress requires both vision and data. We need to plan. We need to hope and dream. We need to count the cost as well as move out in faith. Where do you want to be? Who do you want to be? What is the next step you need to take to get there?

“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it-- lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ Luke 14:28-30

Be at peace,
Pastor Steve