Mind the Gap

This phrase – Mind the Gap – was first introduced in 1968 in the United Kingdom in the London underground. As the train stops there is a gap between the platform and the train. If the passengers do not watch their step, the gap can be perilous and result in injury. FUN FACT: America adopted this warning and changed it to “watch your step.”

I have never been on the train in London or even the New York subway. I have, however, hit gaps in the pavement or at work and fallen or skinned up my favorite heels. One day I had an important meeting with a group of executives at work. As I prepared that morning, I put on my double-breasted black suit, black & white striped silk blouse and a brand-new pair of black pumps. On a side note, I wouldn’t have normally worn the new shoes to work, because I am notorious for skinning heels. So off I headed to the meeting, just as I boarded the elevator, my heel slipped into the gap between the platform and the floor of the elevator. That heel got peeled like a banana!! I was sick! If only I had watched where I was going, if I had taken a bigger step, if I had…. get it?

Let’s consider the gaps in our everyday lives. Paul puts it this way – “Therefore, let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” (I Corinthians 10:12) Solomon called these gaps the little foxes that spoil the vine. (Song of Solomon 2:15)

There are many snares in our lives – words, attitudes, fear, anxiety, imagination, etc. Often these “gaps’ present themselves as irritants – nothing huge. Someone says something that grabs our attention and instead of walking away, we feel it’s necessary to give said person “a piece of our mind.”  Other times, we imagine things (in our minds) that are not found in fact. Instead of bringing those thoughts under subjection to the Spirit of God, we allow them to flourish until our minds have written a full movie and sequel! Yes, we do that!

When I “ruined” my new black shoes, it had an impact on my day. All I could think about was fixing the shoe! Falling victim to spiritual gaps has the power to ruin the day and may require repentance. When it happens, we must not wallow in the gap but get up and move on.  

Okay dear friend, it is time to acknowledge the gaps in our lives and carefully, deliberately step over them. Therefore, the next time someone cuts you off in traffic, or says something about you, or doesn’t meet your expectations; before you act “Mind the Gap!” Remember – the VICTORY of navigating the gap is SWEET!