The Mystery of Crossing Paths

Sometimes I sit and wonder: out of all the billions of people in this world, why do we cross paths with the particular ones we do? Why this person at this time? Is it really random, or is something bigger happening behind the scenes?

On the surface, it looks like chance. We meet people because of where we live, what we do, who we know. Circumstances align, paths intersect, and connections form. It feels logical, almost mathematical.

But in my heart, I can’t help but believe it’s more than that. I believe God weaves people into our stories for reasons we don’t always recognize right away. Sometimes He brings someone to walk with us for a lifetime, and sometimes just for a season. Sometimes He uses them to grow us, to challenge us, to reveal what we need or what we’ve outgrown. And sometimes He uses them simply to remind us that we are not walking alone.

The truth is, even the encounters that hurt—when someone leaves too soon, or when things fall apart—are not wasted. They shape our hearts. They teach us patience, resilience, and clarity. They prepare us for what’s ahead.

So no, I don’t think it’s random. I think it’s a kind of holy mystery—threads crossing, some staying, some parting, but all contributing to the larger picture God is weaving with our lives. And maybe one day, when I can see the tapestry more clearly, I’ll understand why certain people showed up exactly when they did. Until then, I’ll trust that every crossing, whether brief or lasting, carries meaning.