They say that if you put a frog in a pot and slowly turn up the temperature, it won’t jump out. It will allow itself to be cooked alive. I did that to myself, in a manner of speaking, the other day.

The weather reports had called for a massive snow storm through our area. My secretary was prepared; she had her work done ahead of time and left early. I suggested my associate get his things together and get home as well.

That left me. Most people would also think they had better pack up, but not me. I thought I’d just work a little longer, since it was quiet and I wouldn’t be disturbed.

My wife phoned, and said the roads were terrible, that I should leave and work from home. But I just wanted to get a little more done on my sermon. Deep down, I believe I can drive in any condition under any circumstance.

After a while longer, I heard someone at the door. I thought, “Who would be crazy enough to be out in this snow storm?” It then dawned on me that I was the answer to my own question!

I opened the door, to find a friend. The first words out of her mouth were, “Paul, you are not going to get your car out of the parking lot.”

That’s when I really looked outside and saw that the snow was right up to the bottom of my car. I was cooked!

My friends told me they would help, so I packed up quickly and got to my car. I started it, put it in reverse and backed out. Well, I guess I should say I tried. I got stuck when I put it in first gear.

I don’t have snow tires, instead opting for all season radials. I think the tire companies have a scam going. For over thirty years I have only used all season tires on my cars with no problem. But in the last 10 years, tire companies have pressured us to buy winter tires.

I think they changed the rubber compound. That’s why my all seasons don’t work as well any more. It’s a conspiracy to get me to buy snow tires, or at least that’s my theory.

My friends helped me push my car. It took some work, but finally we were able to get me out of the parking lot.

The drive home was also pretty bad. My tires spun and I slipped around at every street light. When I got to my street, it looked much like the parking lot at the church. I didn’t have high hopes for success, but I just went for it and plowed through the snow.

I got stuck right in front of my neighbour’s house, who happened to be out snow blowing his driveway.  He came over and pushed me to the bottom of my driveway.

That’s when I called in the troops – Lily, that is. She came out and, along with my neighbour and his snow blower, we cleared the driveway so I could get the car in the garage … where it stayed for the night.

Here’s the thing: We get ourselves into all kinds of situations that are over our heads. Many times it’s our own doing … or stupidity. Sometimes, we don’t even have the sense to reach out for help. Know this – God isn’t just waiting for us to beg Him for help; He is actively working for us before we even ask.

That’s Life!

Paul

Question: When has someone come to your aid before you asked for help? Leave your comment below.