Breakdowns & Burnouts.

I learned something new yesterday...that  I didn't see coming. Its hard to see sometimes what systems are related and such was the case yesterday morning. A car manufacturer informed me that the abs light will prompt a lockout of overdrive in the transmission (for theirs). To my more mechanically inclined readers than I, that might go without saying. But it was news to me.

Of course, along with his recommendation to get it looked at asap, was the advisement to keep the speedometer needle on the left side of the 45mph marker.

I had an Adam Sandler moment, from his movie, The Wedding Singer. His bride to be doesn't show up on the big day of his own wedding leaving a note she wasn't coming. When they finally do talk about it and she gives her reasons, his character replies...

"That information would have been useful. Yesterday!" (and actually a few yesterdays before that) for the purpose of this experience.

Of course, leave it to God to use the most unusual of situations to bring light to spiritual matters. And, I relayed this statement to the dealer, to make sure I understood what he was explaining and he confirmed my phrasing of the conclusion. I know... you are on the edge of your seat in anticipation. Wishful thinking on my part? Thought so.
Let me get this right.

A breakdown in this system could lead to a burn out in another system.

Wow. Then I pondered.

Breakdown of your vehicle will burn out the emergency fund.
Breakdown in communication leads to burn out in relationship.
Breakdown in leadership will burn out the organization.
Breakdown in marriage will burn out a community.
Breakdown in the spirit will burn out ones perspective.
Breakdown of the church... 
Breakdown of one part puts stress on surrounding parts obviously, but we are talking an entire system impacts another. Who or what picks up the work of the church if the church breaks down?

That's more disconcerting than the phone call that I had with the shop!

So, pray this #deaconThursday, for pastor and church leaders alike, facing challenges of all kinds, at home, in ministry, in community, in other areas of responsibility... may God watch over them and grant them the ability, to discern and navigate their way towards solutions that are beneficial. May they not be pursuaded to throw in the towel just yet, but to keep the faith; to continue fighting the good fight. We can't afford the delays that accompany the burnouts that are sure to follow shortly thereafter. Speak peace, health and life to the areas that are close to breaking. May the power of God and the healing process of the Holy Spirit accomplish the miraculous.

Standing firm....despite getting attacked on all sides. His purposes fulfilled, for His glory.

- PNC

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