We have been blessed with a wide variety of drivers at Hope Haven Rwanda over the years. One of our favorite drivers is Paccy (pronounced “pass-ie”). He is an adventure-seeking, fun-loving, big-hearted driver who we’ve spent many hours with. He is responsive, flexible and always willing to jump in where needed. Paccy’s young family is also amazing and it has been a joy to hang out with them.
Today, in addition to driving, Paccy serves those who are in hospitals. He is particularly called to help people who are unable to pay their medical bills. God has given Paccy favor and grace to help many people in this way! In fact, his compassionate heart led me to coin a new way to say an old word: “Com-PACCY-ion.”
Paccy has been part of some of our most poignant memories, whether exploring the country, running errands, transporting students or delivering supplies. We typically spend a lot of time in our vehicles, often with other people. If we are intentional, these moments become precious times of learning and fellowship together.
And, of course, driving in Rwanda is always interesting. The infrastructure in the city of Kigali is impressive! Modern traffic lights with countdown timers, traffic police at almost every intersection, and “motos” zipping by facilitate a flurry of commerce and transportation.
When you move outside the city, the roads become a bit more challenging. In fact, travel on a bumpy dirt road in Rwanda is often called “an African massage.” But having an experienced driver who knows how to navigate the road makes all the difference.
There’s a great spiritual lesson here: Who has the steering wheel in your life? Every time we attend a funeral, or think about our own mortality, we are reminded of how little control we have of our lives. For some strange reason, we delude ourselves through most of our life, thinking that we are in control. A dear mentor of mine reminded me yesterday that one of the keys to spiritual growth is surrendering control—in everything.
I want to learn to surrender fully to God’s plan, direction and timing. “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God“ (Romans 8:14). Or, as the musician Toby Mac says, “I don’t wanna be no backseat driver.”
Consider these lyrics:
“Silly me, silly me, aye
Revertin’ back to my old ways
Them got to be in control days
Jump before I pray
Yo, I’m headed out the doorway
But I want Your way, Yahweh
From dirt roads to highways
You’re showin’ me a beautiful view from this backseat
There’s lots of room and I never would have seen it if I wasn’t rolling with you
I don’t wanna be no backseat, no backseat driver
I don’t wanna navigate, won’t You take it over?
I don’t wanna ever doubt You, I’m lost without You, Lord
I don’t wanna be no backseat, no backseat driver
You got the wheel, take me where You wanna go
My heart is Yours, no matter where we roll.”
Who’s got the wheel in your life today?