Airport Elevators

I am extremely fortunate to travel often. Some involves flying. Reflecting on my task schedule this morning, I was reminded of airport elevators or, in Europe, airport lifts. You know, those contraptions that get us and our baggage from one floor of the airport to the appropriate check-in desk, boarding gate, or car hire desk.

Many times, I have had the experience where I locate the elevator, and I press the call button to call the elevator to the floor I’m on. I’m alerted by a chime to indicate that my ride has arrived. The polished aluminum doors open, and I step in alone. I locate the push button panel and choose my floor. Easy!

But then it happens, before the elevator doors close, other travellers appear and pile into “My Elevator.” Whole families, an abundance of luggage, children, grandparents—within seconds, this once empty space is crowded! My original standing position now sees me pushed to the back wall of the elevator, struggling to breath. You get the picture. 

This elevator or lift scenario can reflect my life sometimes. Tasks, burdens, health issues, troubles, relationships—each day they all pile in, some unexpected, most uninvited, some masquerading as so important that all my attention is demanded, often to the detriment of what really matters in life.

What really matters? Relationships. My relationship with God, my wife, and my family are most central to me.

When I feel like I’m metaphorically pressed up against the back of life’s elevator, struggling for perspective, I personally find comfort when I turn to God’s Word found in the Bible. Psalm 94:18-19. “When I said, my foot is slipping, your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consultation brought me joy.”

What is most important to you today? And where do you turn for perspective on those things crowding in on you?

Slainte.

John Corcoran