Today I have tackled eating an elephant. Figuratively speaking. How does one eat an elephant? One bite at a time.
My ‘elephant’ is in the sewing room with a dreaded project hanging over my head. Let it be said here that knowing how to run a sewing machine does not equate to being a skilled seamstress. Or in this case, a tailor. The zipper on my windbreaker jacket broke and needed replacement.
Some time back I ordered a white separating zipper online for a bathrobe. The package was delivered in a timely manner with one little problem—the zipper was black. Realization comes to me slowly at times. The windbreaker is black.
In my thinking spot I realized this was to my benefit. Take out the broken and replace with the already paid for mistake. Easy to say, a challenge to do. What I did not realize is how well made the windbreaker is. Really well made. To ensure that all the pieces of jacket remained in place I basted before I started ripping out. Unfortunately, the zipper also wanted to remain in place. I suspect fabric glue was part of the construction.
As I basted away I came across a surprise. Inside the jacket is a hidden pocket! I love inner pockets and thrilled at what I have hidden in plain sight. Visions of sugar plums dance in my head as to what I can now carry sheltered from wind or rain.
Well—sometime anyway. My days are full and this project will not be accomplished anytime soon. Completion may not come until the dead of winter when it will be too cold to wear a jacket. Baby steps. One bite at a time. This was a dreaded project because seldom can I make a repair on a ready-made garment and have it looking as good as a factory finish. My skills do not match my intentioned goals. But it will work, even though it may look as though I tampered with it.
Look closely at what you may have hidden in plain sight. Whether it be a pocket, an opportunity or something packed away. You know what I’m talking about—that thing you could not bear to part with because someday it could be useful. Today may be your day.
Life is like that. So is Jesus. Do you have circumstances that you dread—fearing it is going to be a big deal? Something you would rather not deal with? I get it.
As far as this zipper project goes, I have decided to ask Jesus to give me the wisdom and skill to get it done. If you like, you can try Jesus with your thing too. I have every confidence he will come through—for both of us.
PS The bathrobe is patiently waiting.
One Day Wonders with JBK 