The Mattress Test

Appropriate for Adults

 By Ed J Horton
http://www.edjhorton.com

During a recent Christmas holiday we visited my in-laws in Southern California. Usually, the combination of fresh sea air and a leisurely stroll around their small island community helps me unwind. But this time the tension remained as my mind kept wandering back to my job. A large truck rumbled slowly down the narrow street behind me, interrupting my thoughts.

I watched two delivery drivers unload a king-size mattress from the truck's van. I seated myself on a nearby corner bench and observed them follow an elderly gentleman into his house. Several minutes later they emerged, still hauling the same plactic-wrapped mattress.

"Let's take it around to the patio and see if we can get it upstairs by hoisting it over the balcony," said the driver.

Even with both men lifting, they could not get the mattress over the railing and onto the balcony.

"John, you go upstairs and I'll lift the mattress up to you."

The younger man sprinted off and was soon leaning over the balcony, calling to his buddy below. "Okay, I'm ready."

He bent over further until he had a firm grasp on the mattress handles as his partner lifted. No matter how hard he tried, though, he could not pull it up alone. Finally, the one below yelled, "Hold tight, I'll come up and help you with it." The young man nearly dangled over the edge holding onto that mattress. At least if he fell it would be a soft landing!

Together, the two easily pulled the mattress onto the balcony.

Have you ever faced the "mattress" test? That situation, project, or relationship that seemed to take all of your strength and resources? I shook my head, laughing as I recognized the "mattress" in my life.

I had struggled for several weeks trying to meet a project deadline at work that loomed in front of me like the over-sized mattress. An associate had left our department and the extra workload fell on me. Why hadn't I just asked for more help? Was it pride, rugged independence, or a fear that I would be perceived as inadequate that made me struggle alone? I did not know the answer. However, the incident reminded me that God was with me and I needed to ask for His guidance. Once I did, I began to relax and sense God's direction. I would speak with my director when I returned to the office.

With the right kind of help, my "mattress" was manageable!

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2 NIV)