
I really love to fly; I love airplanes, the airport, and the concept of flying. However, one day after an extremely exhausting experience at the airport, I decided that no matter what happens, I will never "fight" for a seat if the flight is overbooked, even in an emergency. I figured if I am supposed to be on that flight, then it is for me; if not, then it is not for me.
Then one day, as I patiently waited on a very long line at the airport to board a flight from California to New York, I overheard the flight attendant announce to her associate that, "We've come to the last seat!" -Since I was next in line, I was undisturbed. As I was called by the attendant, out of nowhere, a woman jumps in front of me insisting that she was really next in line and that the seat should be hers; of course, it was a total fabrication. It was apparent that wherever she was, she had also overheard the flight attendant’s comment. Just as the New York in me was about to rear its ugly head, I remembered my promise. I let her go on and on about how the seat was supposed to be hers. Then I looked at the woman and the flight attendant and gently said, "Be my guest;" and, returned to my former place in line. As I waited to be served I wondered why the flight attendant seemed a little stunned.
When I returned to the counter, she said to me smiling, “In all my years doing this job, I have never seen anyone do that! —Well,... we do have one more seat! -And, because you were so gracious to offer YOUR seat, I would like to upgrade you to First-Class!" -Now, I was stunned! It was the very first time I flew First-Class.
I compare this story to waiting on the Lord. It may appear that everyone is jumping in front of you, pushing by, getting further faster, ahead in everything —love, finances, —life. But, do not pay them any attention, be patient; if not, you just might give away YOUR First-Class seat to someone else. L.
Study Reference: Psalm 27:11-14
From: "A First-Class Seat." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
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