Bucket List (or not)

I wonder if Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman thought their 2007 movie's title would live into infamy? I mean, didn't almost everyone start a Bucket List after watching that?

My husband and I recently had lunch with our daughter, and a few of her children. Our fifteen year old grandchild mentioned a few of his future plans, and all we adults encouraged him. Then he, and the rest of us, laughed in acknowledgement that not everything works out the way we plan. I added my unsolicited comment: "God's not often gone along with what I've had on my Bucket List, but perhaps He won't laugh as much at you."

I don't say this mockingly. It's only that the best things in my life haven't happened because of my plans. They've occurred because of how God really does make everything work together for good. (Even through the really rough and tough stuff that no one would ever write on a wish list.)

For example:

Years ago, when I wrote on my Bucket List that I wanted to work as a waitress, God laughed. Of course, He knows what a klutz I am. Instead, His plan for me was to become a mother and a nurse. I got paid to serve others, and I also had the non-monetary-related job, but privilege, of serving my busy family.

When I wrote that I'd like to record something someday, and perhaps be heard singing on the radio, God laughed again, because He knows I don't have a stellar solo voice. Although not good enough to perform on "The Voice", I have had the honour to sing with my kids, and on worship teams.

Every second Sunday I email my Laugh at Life humour column to the first editor who gave me the opportunity to cross "get published" off my Bucket List. I believe I once had the naivety to pen "write a best-seller". God chuckled at that too, but He's given me the opportunity to write in various ways, and get to know incredible people through these endeavours.

It's so interesting how God steps into our lives and helps us accomplish what He's planned for us, even though we may have pictured it differently.

I don't know why I don't keep a Bucket List anymore. More of my lists now are smaller day-to-day ones, written so I won't forget anything.

There's nothing wrong with goals and dreams, and Bucket Lists of things we'd like to do before we kick-the-bucket. But I hope I'm becoming more comfortable leaving more of my future up to God. Looking back at His track record, I do know at least one thing: My plans have not, and will never be, as wonderful as His are.

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to HIS purpose." (Romans 8:28 - KJV)

Enjoy Your Bucket List (or not), and have a fabulous end of October!

May God Bless You in Astounding Ways!

Love,

Pattie

As always, feel free to share a comment, and if you need prayer for something specific, I'd be more than glad to pray.

NEXT DRAW: End of November!