Jesus, Take the Wheel

It seems that we eventually have a moment in life where we need Jesus to take the wheel. “Jesus, Take the Wheel”,(written by James, Lindsey and Sampson) recorded by American country music artist Carrie Underwood, tells the story of that “moment” when she sees her life flash before her and fear sets in:

“Jesus, take the wheel

Take it from my hands

‘Cause I can’t do this on my own

I’m letting go

So give me one more chance

Save me from this road I’m on

Jesus, take the wheel.

The real honest truth is that we often think we can handle our own wheel, thank you very much. We’re self sufficient, able, strong, intelligent and capable. We have careers and all sorts of initials after our name. We’re doing fine with our own wheel! Why would we need Jesus?

At the same time, we make mistakes and botch things up. We know we do, as much as we try to hide that part of ourselves. We don’t know what we don’t know. We live in our “rightness” if only in our minds, missing out on the amazing life offered to us if we let go of our wheel.

What if God took control of your life? What if He set the course for your life? Knowing the greatness and sovereignty of our God, there is no other One that I would want to control my life. No One.

“Jesus, Take the Wheel” shouldn’t just be our last ditch effort when things get bad and we’re desperate for God. “Jesus Take the Wheel” is plea for each day. I need God each day to direct me, guide me, love me, and care for me. And when I’m tempted to go on side-trips of comparison, pride, envy, discontentment, jealousy and gossip, I plead with Jesus to take my wheel. When I live with unforgiveness, anger and resentment, I cry out for Jesus to take the wheel. When I judge others for their wrongdoings, but fail to see my own, I once again ask Jesus to take the wheel.

Lord, would you take the wheel of my heart? Set the course you wish for me to go. Get me to your destination of choice. You know me more than I  know myself. You know what’s best for me. Forgive me for the times I try to grab the wheel wanting what I want. Redirect me to every good thing you offer me in Christ. Lord, direct my steps. Your ways are blameless. You are a shield to all who take refuge in You. (Psalm 18:30) Open me up to the idea of you taking the wheel of my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain of the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.