Backwards

You’re probably wondering about the picture that accompanies this blog post. I would be if I were you. In fact I was when I saw it at my daughter Alexa’s house. It’s a Baby Bum Brush. And it does just what it says: allows you to put cream on your little one’s bottom. I thought it was kind of silly. An unnecessary gadget. But then I used it when I was changing my granddaughter Lily’s diaper. It was like magic! I wouldn’t say it’s invaluable, but would definitely recommend it. It spread the cream so evenly. And made things less messy for me. A win-win!

As the days went by, I didn’t think about it again. Except to wonder about the name since it’s a spatula not a brush. I guess the company that makes it liked the alliteration (3 b’s). But then I noticed a dry patch on my back. I had been putting prescription cream on a section that was just below it. This new one was out of reach. So I went on Amazon and ordered my very own Baby Bum Brush. I was certain it would do the trick… until I actually tried to use it. Oh the product was perfect for the task. The problem was with me! As I looked in the mirror to put the cream where it was needed, everything was backwards. Now you’re probably thinking, “Duh!” The real issue was my total lack of coordination in light of everything being opposite. It took days for me to finally be able to do it without missing the spot and wasting cream.

That experience made me think of Isaiah 55:8-9: "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. (NIV) How often do I think God should be doing something differently or sooner, or have no idea what He’s up to? But as I seek Him through His Word day by day, I get to know Him better. As I watch His perfect plan unfold again and again, I’m able to trust Him more. I’d love to say that I totally get God now and nothing ever concerns or surprises me. I’m not there yet, and I won’t be until I see Him face to face. But just like with that Baby Bum Brush, the more I practice – draw nearer to Jesus by reading and studying my Bible and praying – the less backwards things seem.

Just something I’m pursuing along the way.