Bad Timing

Yesterday was an unusual day in the Sonoran Desert. Rain fell almost all day long. Rain! That wonderful experience that everyone dreams about, prays for in July and August. The skies even thundered in the late evening. Car headlights came on automatically, water filled the potholes in the street, and Thanksgiving Day shoppers ran from their cars into the grocery store as if they might melt in the downpour. One dripping customer was overheard to say: “That lousy rain. Why didn’t it come down on a day when I didn’t have to shop!” You’re right…the same guy who sat in church in August and said: “Lord, Lord…”

Two observations. First, be careful what you pray for. You might get it. And, second, life doesn’t always seem to take my convenience into account. Obviously, the rain did not know that I was planning to shop yesterday. Bad timing. So, from those of us who feel entitled and exasperated, this announcement: I plan to drive over to San Diego soon, and when I do, I would appreciate a nice sunny day, minimal traffic, lowered gas prices (it is California!) and no radar traps on the Interstate. I will restate my requirements (requests) this morning in church when we all pray together. There you have it. That’s that. Amen.