but, that is NOT what I had planned!

Normally I am a pretty "go with the flow" kind of person. When things get done, they get done. I don't sweat about it taking longer than I'd planned or having to delay a project. Most of the time. But when I have a big task with a specific deadline I map out a plan so the job is completed efficiently and I am not cramming and irritably exhausted at the end. I am in the middle of one of those times right now. Sunday went as planned. Yesterday went as planned. Today went as planned until about noon when I received an invitation to speak on May 8. An engagement that will require time, prayer, study, energy and concentration I didn't budget for. Before I left to work at the Mission store at 2:00 a friend asked if I was free for a visit about 7:30. At the beginning of soccer practice I received an invitation to a special birthday party at 5:30. Saying yes meant scrapping my evening agenda, losing about 4 hours of work time. But what I gained was stronger relationships. There is no doubt in my mind that the most important work this week is what has happened outside of what I planned for. Experience has taught me that even though it makes no sense on paper, God always works things out when I choose people over projects.