Parking Lot Picnic

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

Life often becomes complicated, busy, and overwhelming, even when we try our best to stay calm. This week, I realized I was not in a good place and was not experiencing God’s peace in my life. Feeling unsettled, I became easily agitated, cried on cue, and could not understand why. I went through my morning routine, and that’s when I discovered that the problem was the routine. I was going through the motions and was missing real quiet time with God.

So, I decided it was time for a parking lot picnic. I picked up lunch and parked in the mall parking lot facing the mountains. Away from all the noise and busyness that had been surrounding me. Right on cue, the DJ at the radio station I was listening to mentioned how she had just pitched a fit to God. She had unloaded everything on her mind to God, telling Him how unfair it all was and how overwhelming life had become, and then realized that not once had she expressed gratitude to God. That thought stopped her in her tracks, and she immediately asked for forgiveness, raised her hands in praise, and thanked God that He was always fully aware of every detail of her life.

When I heard that, I did the same. Prayed, asked for forgiveness, and then turned up the worship music while enjoying a parking lot picnic with God. It was like the noise of the world was turned off, and my heart began to be filled with such peace, joy, and thankfulness. I then watched as a thunderstorm crossed the mountains and began to release a downpour of rain so thick you could see it cover the hills and valleys. I rolled down my windows to smell the fresh scent of the rain and feel the cool air. Lightning strikes flashed and were followed by the rumbling sounds of thunder. It was such an awesome display of God’s creation, power, and provision.

In a short amount of time, I had completely forgotten all my cares and worries. I was spending time with God, real time in His presence, and nothing else mattered. For a girl who has always feared thunderstorms, I found myself in awe of this one. Watching it move across the mountain range and across town was so mesmerizing and surprisingly peaceful.

It wasn’t the storm that calmed my heart and mind; it was time with God. It was that reminder that I have so much to be thankful for, and when I decide to praise God no matter what, I am spiritually lifted above any storm that comes my way. My circumstances didn’t change, but my attitude did. I left that lunch date happier and lighter because I was again experiencing the peace of God.

Thank you, Lord, for spending time with me. For forgiving me and loving me. Help me not to make our time together a routine, but rather a treasured experience that I eagerly look forward to every day. I love you, Lord!