People seem to be in a perpetual hurry – sometimes dangerously so. I think about this when I’m driving, especially on the freeway. the interstate between Colorado Springs and Denver is a prime example, though I am sure you could cite similar instances on roads where you live.
Normally the speed limit on much of I-25 between these two cities is 75 mph. However, for a couple of years now, the Colorado Department of Transportation has been working on widening a 17 mile stretch, referred to as “the gap.” There are frequently lane closures and significantly reduced speed limits, which makes perfect sense. So, surely people pay attention and slow down for safety reasons – right?
My wife drives the stretch of highway once or twice a week to babysit our grandkids. As she does so, following the reduced speeds of 50 to 60 mph, individuals will tailgate her, weave in and out of traffic, at speeds often in excess of 90 mph. There have been serious accidents and even some deaths as a result of these “gotta get their faster” individuals. Yet they continue these dangerous behaviors. Why?
I would contend that it has to do with a failure to focus on what matters – what God placed them on this earth for, a resulting internal agitation and a lack of peace. I am reminded of the Apostle Paul’s words, “For the mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” (Romans 8:6) These words can quite literally be true on the roads in America.
Let’s remember why we are here and embrace the peace that God so passionately wants us to have – and maybe some lives will be saved in the process.