I’ve had both the pleasure and frustration of air travel in 2021. As we all know, the pandemic has upended many previously routine activities. Some things are the same; long term parking vs a ride to and from the airport. Snow removal lined up for the duration of the trip, at least for those of us living in the Midwest. Putting a hold on mail, turning the heat down the old-fashioned way in our home and counting on package deliveries to be done before leaving. 

    Now for the airport. Masks. In all places at all times. Lines to check bags whether pre-checked in or not. Attempting to “social distance” in those lines. Ah, TSA pre. Marvelous with the exception of those carrying artificial joints. I appreciate the TSA agents willing to have a bit of friendly conversation and making the most of what is a primarily thankless job. I always light up an area or two and require a pat down. It’s happened so many times it’s no longer awkward or embarrassing. 

    I’ve hustled and hurried my way to the gate, now it’s time to wait. People watching, a trip or two to the restroom and refilling my water bottle. Because of where we live, unless it’s a long flight, the aircraft is a puddle jumper. Planning ahead with a small tote tucked inside the rollie eliminates the hassle of having to check the bag planeside.

    Finally on board. Mask on. Wipe down the arm rests and tray table with the disinfectant wipe provided. Good grief. I cleaned the house before I left and our new normal gives me the opportunity to clean wherever I am! Most of you know what’s next. Seat belt and safety instructions. Locations of the nearest exit. Where to find and how to use floatation devices.

“Oxygen and the air pressure are always being monitored. In the event of a decompression, an oxygen mask will automatically appear in front of you. To start the flow of oxygen, pull the mask towards you. Place it firmly over your nose and mouth, secure the elastic band behind your head, and breathe normally. Although the bag does not inflate, oxygen is flowing to the mask. If you are travelling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask first, and then assist the other person. Keep your mask on until a uniformed crew member advises you to remove it.”

    More emergency information is given and most of us tune it out from the start. Why is that? Emergencies do happen. Emergency exits, oxygen and flotation devices may be needed. Am I that familiar with the emergency instructions to ignore a refresher? Would I be able to keep calm enough to remember what to do? I pray I will never need to answer that question.

    Most days we walk through life with a sense of familiarity and “I’ve heard this before” sameness. Life happens. Time marches on. But then, the unexpected conversation. The call from the school office and the teen that seemed to be doing well isn’t. An aging parent has a bad fall. The discussions about how to handle the difficult family member become arguments. Work hours and pay cuts will not cover the expenses and instead of giving, thoughts of tight-fisted living consume you. It seems that no matter where you turn there are needs. Emotional, physical, relational, and financial needs and you can’t breathe. 

    I know in my personal journey, those are the times I realize I have not been putting on my own mask first. I’m suffocating and I find myself in a spiritual emergency. 

    God’s Word gives us instructions for this journey called life. His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. (2 Peter 1:3 NIV)

    Spending time in God’s Word and learning to listen keeps us prepared for emergencies, our own and those of others who need assistance. Our relationship with Christ is the source of oxygen we need to live a life worth living. Strength for the unexpected events we all experience. Wisdom for the times we don’t know what to say or do. An abundant life full of surprises, joy, pain, peace in the storms and breath to go the distance. 

    Before assisting others, spend time filling your heart, mind, soul, and strength with the breath of God.