By Buddy Champion
First Baptist Church Trussville
It seemed like a good idea. The fall day was so refreshing, how could anything go wrong? Time could be saved and steps could be eliminated. Instead of walking all the way around to the gate to turn the water off, I could just reach through the fence. Well, actually it was between two 
fences running parallel to each other and separated by about four inches. One is a link fence for a dog and the other is an electric fence for livestock. So, I lean over the dog fence in such a way that the top of the link fence is pressed against my chest, stretch my arm through the two fences down toward the leaking water faucet. I slowly — and carefully — begin to turn off the faucet and once my hand got very wet, it happened. It made a popping noise akin to the sound of clapping thunder, (not really but it seemed like it) and then pulsed through my body and completed the flow where my chest was leaning on the metal link fence! I had been shocked by the electric fence that I knew was on! After I screamed like a woman and yanked my hand out of the obstacle course of fences, I wondered how I could be so stupid — again.
We would all agree things seem so simple at first but suddenly life gets complicated and at times painful. Sometimes, we have the ability to take the ordinary and make it miserable. However, the God who gives us the beautiful creation of fall colors also brings order to our lives with His presence. The world offers chaos and electrical jolts but God offers a “peace that passes understanding,” Phil. 4:7. One day Jesus was teaching His disciples about His departure. Reasons were given for them to be encouraged and strong. He mentioned things such as His presence through the Holy Spirit, the promise of Heaven and even His return to earth! He finished this teaching with the promise; “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world,” John 16:33 (NIV).
Life may give you a jolt this week. Get away from the fence and turn to the presence of a personal relationship with Jesus. He really will help you to see clearly again!
