In Training for Take Off

Have you ever been to one of those small airports where pilots are learning to fly? Years ago, I spent a little time at one because my daughter had a weekly meeting there with the Civil Air Patrol.

Occasionally, I would find myself near the runway and would see small planes come and go. A few times, we even got to go up in a little Cessna, which was such a neat experience.

There are times now when I picture student pilots as they practice on the runway in my mind. They gain speed, lift just slightly off the ground… and then come right back down. Over and over again. Up a little. Back down. Repeating the process as they learned what it takes to truly take off and fly.

Lately, I’ve found myself thinking that my spiritual life can feel a lot like that. There are moments when everything feels so close to God—maybe during a beautiful song, a meaningful message, or a clearly answered prayer. In those moments, it feels like my heart is lifting, like I’m about to take off.

But then, not long after, I find myself settling back into the routines of everyday life. The dishes, the responsibilities, the ordinary moments. And sometimes it can feel like I’ve come back down again.

Up…and then back down. What if, just like those pilots, we’re in training? Those short lifts off the ground are building skill, confidence, and readiness for something greater. Each attempt is preparing the pilot for the day when they won’t just lift briefly, but will soar.

Maybe those “up and down” seasons in our lives are doing the same thing.

Maybe God is using each moment—both the highs and the ordinary—to prepare us, strengthen us, and teach us to trust Him more deeply.

Because one day, we won’t just feel like we’re about to take off. We’ll be ready to fly. I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait!

“They will soar on wings like eagles…” Isaiah 40:31

March 20, 2026 Morning Brew

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