Day 1: The Flight Deck

Proverbs 11:14 (KJV): “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”

During flight operations, the flight deck of a carrier is a dangerous place. Powerful jets take off and land at speeds approaching 150 miles per hour, sometimes as close as forty seconds apart. There are large propellers twirling, and sailors must learn to dodge the exhaust blasts from the engines of these mighty aircraft. Thus, a sign is posted for all to see: Authorized Personnel Only. To be safe, those not familiar with the setting should follow someone who knows the way.

Wanting to experience all the sensations of sight, sound, and smell familiar to those who work on the flight deck, I looked for such an experienced person. Master Chief Westmoreland agreed to be my guide but only if I obeyed his every command. I learned firsthand the importance of those commands, such as stand here, not there, and wait, move now. I learned how to respond to the pressure of a firm hand to stop and kneel. By doing so, I missed the hot exhaust of a moving jet.

As the master chief guided me, God must guide us. Just as I had to yield to the master chief, so must we yield to God. As I was obedient to his commands, we must be attentive to God’s commands to wait, slow down, and proceed with caution. We must also learn to heed God’s firm, yet guiding hand to kneel and pray. Help us to respond to those whose experiences demand we listen, according to your word. Remember:

When in life’s journey, I need a guide,
Let your presence with me ever abide.
Speak to my heart, my soul, my mind, each day,
In you, O Lord, I will trust, love, and obey.

Questions to Consider:

• How is your life like a flight deck?
• Have you prayed to God for guidance today?
• When necessary, have you asked spiritual leaders for guidance?
• Are you open to counsel from people with spiritual expertise?

Reflection for the Day:

• Think just a few moments about what it means to heed the voice of God. Then determine not to miss God’s gentle, yet firm guidance.