Nearly eleven years ago, I stood in the middle of a deserted Alaskan Highway and snapped a picture. I was on spring break with a group from Taylor University, and we traveled from one village to another hosting Bible schools for children.

This picture is one of my favorites because of the bend in the road. What lies beyond is unknown from my vantage point, and to me it symbolizes the unexpected on my life’s journey. When I took the picture, I didn’t know what God had in store for me during the next few years. At the time I hoped to finish college and find a job teaching elementary school. However, I learned I enjoyed teaching middle school more, and I was blessed to find three middle school teaching jobs in three years.

I had no idea six years later God would call me to write, and there have been moments of triumph and times of disappointment. I don’t know what my future as a writer holds. But I do know whatever is beyond the bend is completely in God’s control, and if I trust him, he’ll make my path straight (Proverbs 3:5-6). Even when the road is not.