We all make plans—carefully mapped and full of hope—until life interrupts with wildfire, heartbreak, or disappointment. But what if those disruptions aren’t accidents? What if they’re invitations?
Father Bill Miller had planned a quiet retreat at a cabin in Idaho, only to have wildfires cancel the trip. Stranded in Santa Fe, he spent unexpected days with his godson James, an aspiring filmmaker. Their deep talks about pain, faith, and purpose turned a ruined plan into a divine appointment for connection.
Scripture is full of such detours. The Apostle Paul, imprisoned and forgotten, used his confinement to write letters that would shape Christian faith for centuries. His lowest moment became his strongest platform.
Spiritual teacher Richard Rohr writes, “All mature spirituality is about letting go.” Real growth happens when we stop trying to control the story and learn to trust the Author.
And it always leads us back to love. From Paul’s bond with Onesimus to the boy at Father Flanagan’s home who carried his disabled friend saying, “He ain’t heavy—he’s my brother,” the message is the same: our greatest purpose is found in carrying one another.
So when your plans fall apart, don’t ask, Why me?
Ask instead: What might this make possible?
Because sometimes the road you didn’t plan is the one that leads you home.
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