“I love it when a plan comes together.” This is a quote from one of my favorite childhood television shows. Even today, when a plan of mine “comes together,” I will say this phrase. However, most of us know our careful plans rarely go off without a hitch.
At this time of year, every church focuses on the birth of our Lord and savior in that noisy and stinky stable. I would guess Joseph didn’t say on the day of Jesus’ birth, “I love it when a plan comes together.” He probably felt frustrated, ashamed, and maybe confused about why everything turned out the way it did. Why were they in a barn and not a nice hotel?
However, this was God’s plan coming together in this spectacular moment. Was it perfect from a human’s perspective? Not even close. But to God, it accomplished everything needed – to the last detail.
In our moments of “I could have done better” or “I wish I had a redo button,” we must believe that God sees the entire situation and has it all under control. Now, should we negate planning or trying to do our best? Certainly not. But we are to put our focus (and keep our focus) on God – casting our care on Him because He cares for us. (1 Peter 5:7) Your assignment from God may not seem as essential as Joseph’s, but it is important all the same. You are to be that light and love your neighbor. Or maybe it’s sharing an encouraging word or earnestly praying for them when you are led to do so.
We can find lessons for ourselves in Joseph’s story. First, realize that nothing is impossible for God. God didn’t need Joseph or the situation to be “perfect” for His plan to come to pass. You don’t have to wait to be perfect before God can use you, either. God can use you and wants to use you just as you are. He cares more about your heart than anything else.
Joseph showed us that our relationship with God is the most important thing. Jesus says in John 15:4, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine. Neither can you, unless you abide in me.” Verse 5 goes on to say, “...apart from me you can do nothing.”
So whether your plans come together this Christmas or end up in a hot mess, give them entirely over to God. And when He works it out, you can say, “I love it when a plan comes together!”