This rather “crude” remark literally came from an expert who knows his trade. The basement was flooded after a tremendous downpour. Despite walking in an inch of water, nothing valuable was damaged. However, the search to find a plumber who knows what needed to be done can be a headache in itself.The “Yellow Pages” in Rochester list 113 plumbing contractors from Dyna-Mode to Roto-Rooter. Who do you call? My limited sources suggested no one by name but call the Better Business Bureau first to learn the worst of the lot. I blindly called Mr Rooter for an estimate. Then came a surprise cell phone ring from “Bob” who simply said: “go get your estimate, and call me back and I will come right by.”
It seems that this “pipe angel” knew me by some strange coincidence, but I had no clue that he was also an experienced plumber. Bob came with his helper, Pueblo who literally was his other arm. To my surprise, Bob has only one arm due to an accident, but he works like a surgeon.
The source of the problem was a “plugged drain” which happens in all homes from time to time. It was an easy fix working with the right “snakes.” As he worked, I wondered how many times we feel ”plugged” with survival issues and no one to turn to. We might be ankle deep in water or worse if the sewer backed up. We cry out for help but no one seems to understand the “sledge” we are wading in. This might be a good time to pray as we bail more water out of the basement and “call God and he’ll come right by.”
God does listen to our dilemma and frustration and it was his spirit that clearly sent this plumber who was not intimidated by any clogged drains, nasty roots or cemented drain value. Literally, with a tap of his hammer, he unscrewed the cemented drain cap, ran his “snakes” out to the street and announced with cheer: it (the drain) runs like a fanny.” Needless to say, his bill was 200% less than the other plumbing company. His confidence in diagnosing and curing the problem made him the hero of my day.
After he left, I was quietly sweeping water in the basement back into the open drain thanking God for people like Bob who are not afraid to tackle the messes of life and put things right. Faith in God means despite the “clogged” parts of our day, help from above comes when we know whom to call and trust in His wisdom and strength.
God prays for us as we reflect; “Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Drains, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings. (Isaiah 58:12).
Lord, I pray for all my Sonshine Friends who feel like they are drowning in sorrow and pain. Bring them a “pipe angel” who knows how to drain our fears and make our lines run “smooth as a fanny.”
