Last week I spent a few days at “The Mothership” (our Corporate Headquarters) doing some strategic planning. Since I had not been there in awhile, it provided an opportunity to get my yearly review out of the way. Thankfully, the review was positive. I would have been well pleased had it not been for some “discussion” that took place as we talked about future advancement and opportunities. It was at this point that the following comment was made:
“Aaron, while staying in Columbus isn’t hurting you (career wise), it certainly isn’t helping you either”
Before you start asking for our new address, let me be clear in saying that this isn’t the first time this conversation has taken place. Moving to Indianapolis has been in the back of our minds as long as I have been with my current employer. As my position within the organization has grown, so has the discussion. It has never been a “You have to” talk, just a “you might consider”. At the end of the day, this is all about my career with this organization and if I ever want to go to “the next level”.
Numbers 9:16 tells the story of a large cloud above the Tabernacle. It was the guide for the Israelites to know when God was moving them.
“16 That is how it continued to be; the cloud covered it, and at night it looked like fire. 17 Whenever the cloud lifted from above the Tent, the Israelites set out; wherever the cloud settled, the Israelites encamped. 18 At the LORD’s command the Israelites set out, and at his command they encamped. As long as the cloud stayed over the tabernacle, they remained in camp.”
Oh to have that cloud. Seems pretty straight forward to me. Especially with the technology we have at our disposal these days. I could just dial up the local Doppler and know exactly when the cloud was moving. It’s not that simple anymore is it? I know so many that are looking for the cloud, seeking wisdom, discernment, something…anything. They just want to know if “this is God’s will”. It doesn’t have to involve a moving truck either. It could be a relationship, a job, a church. We’re seeking a cloud and wondering when it will move.
I am currently not planning on moving to Indianapolis. I just know I want to be obedient. If God has larger opportunities that involve my family and I relocating then I want to be obedient and available. If His plan is to walk away from one opportunity to stay because the cloud didn’t move then I want to be obedient and available. If he’s got a major shift in the cloud that I’m not even aware of, then I want to be obedient and available.
It’s the least I can do. He’s always been faithful.
Been wishing for a cloud or two myself. Thanks for encouragement on the side of openness and willingness.
Thanks Rachel. I find the obedience and willingness maddening at times but it’s not always about what I want. If it was, it would look totally different and I would probably be miserable. The anchor comes in knowing He has been faithful and will be again.
Wonderful lesson! I too have had the “moving” experience incessantly in the back of my head for several years now, and several times it has happened. I really do wish that cloud would appear! Sure would take a lot of the guesswork and mental stress out of it all…or so it seems, at least.
Dude…Honestly, I wish a cloud would move right about now. Really looking into relocating the family…time will tell.
Interesting responses. Thank you all for commenting. This was one of those “should I post it or not” posts. For fear of setting off rumors of us moving, I almost didn’t post it. I’m glad I did. If for no other reason it gives me reasons to pray for you all it is also good to know that I am not alone in pondering and cloud watching.