In 1995 a famous Hollywood actor and a sex worker were arrested for “lewd conduct in a public place.” The actor’s first public appearance following that arrest was on the Jay Leno late-night show. When the actor walked out and sat down, Jay simply looked at him and asked, “What were you thinking?”
I have always admired Jay Leno for that wise question. It broke the tension and there was no accusation nor animosity in it. In fact, we have probably all looked in the mirror and asked ourselves that question at some time in our life. “What were you thinking?” I know I have, multiple times!
I have that question on my mind this morning. A few things have happened recently that brought that question into focus. However, I am not asking myself “What were you thinking,” I am asking God.
I am in good company asking that question of God … the Psalmists also asked it, although they phrased it a bit differently. They asked, “Why?” (Psalms 22, 42, 43)
I do not know what kind of a response the Psalmists heard from God. I know God has seldom answered my “Why?” questions. Usually, I just feel His love around me as He softly whispers, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” [Hebrews 13:5]
For much of life, the answers to “why” types of questions are not given immediately. We can look back and see how God moved in difficult times or see how those tribulations and trials caused us to grow spiritually, but as for immediate answers … they are few and far between.
Today I am asking God, “What were you thinking?” But, I am not expecting an answer, just the assurance of His presence with me.
