“Reflections on an Accident”

Brothers and Sisters,

That is what it was…an accident. The details are this: Wednesday afternoon leaving the church to meet a friend at T-Bonz for lunch, I came to the stop sign at the end of Miles Drive trying to turn left onto Hwy. 171. When I looked before I accelerated, I saw no one. A woman driving in the left lane headed in the same direction as I intended to go hit my rear passenger tire full force. The impact blew out the tire and I lost control of my truck. The truck swerved off of the road, over the sidewalk and into the ditch. Both the woman driver and I were miraculously well except for being shaken up. It was my fault.

Whenever events like this occur, I believe that it is important to reflect on the meaning. Here are some reflections from your grateful rector:

Why I was prepared to die: Because of Jesus Christ’s shed blood on the Cross, all my sins are forgiven and I have a place in God’s family for all eternity. Whether I live or die, I am Christ’s.

Why I was not ready to die: Tara, Ann Claire, Mary Foster, Eliza, Cate, Mom and Dad, my sisters, nieces and nephews, parents in law, sisters in law, friends, The Church of the Good Shepherd, the work at Camp St. Christopher, Ministry in the West Ashley Community and the Diocese of South Carolina.

What I learned about me: I am not careful enough when I drive. I should have been wearing my seatbelt and paying more attention. My faults and shortcomings greatly affect the lives of others. I am a sinner. Many people care about me and my life (thanks to all who knew about the wreck and said so). I am loved.

**What I learned but already knew about God: He is good! He is full of grace. His hand is mighty to save. He is sovereign and in control of all things. He loves his children. When I got out of my truck and climbed out of the ditch, I realized that the oak tree that rested against my truck was just inches from impacting my door and only a foot from being head-on. I knew that the Lord had saved me (as He is doing always and everyday). The fact that I suffered no physical injuries is a sign of the love of God in the life of a sinful servant.

God loves you this much too. We have much for which to be thankful.

Happy Thanksgiving,

Shay +