Romans 8:28

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose." - Romans 8:28

Yes, I love God. How exactly, then, does a near miss with a car when I had front and rear lights fully lit, plus right-of-way with other motorists giving me way, fit into Your plan?

I could take a variety of views into account, the first of which is the "it was a miracle you didn't get injured" view. While that is true, and for which I am immensely thankful, I certainly didn't need an incident like that to prove the importance of being lit-up and riding defensively.

A lesson in humility? Perhaps so, for my mortality loomed large in that moment as the car screeched to a halt scant centimeters from my rear wheel. I can practise all the defensive riding I want, but like I always say, "If someone genuinely wanted to knock you down with his vehicle, there's very little you can do to avoid it."

Perhaps, the most pertinent view is also one that I scarcely gave thought to - the lesson was not for me, but for the driver of the vehicle. He was clearly sober, which meant his decision to not slow down along a deceleration lane exiting the expressway, and not stop at the "Give Way" line when there is another vehicle on the outer filter lane blocking his line-of-sight, was a matter of habit. This is clearly a habit this driver needs to kick, if he was to stay out of future trouble.

Coupling this view with the knowledge that my God is a God of mercy, love and justice, this is perhaps the best assurance I can afford myself, given the information at hand.

Postscript: Yes, it was very scary, in case you wonder how I can state such a situation with sobriety and no cursing. I had half a mind to reprimand the driver, but he knew he was at fault, so all was forgiven.