Oz Syndrome

By: Joseph Murdy
Have you ever felt like a tornado came spinning through your life, picked you up and dropped you somewhere? There can be times in our lives, spiritual or otherwise, when we feel as though our lives have changed so dramatically we find ourselves wondering through what seems like Oz. This is what I like to call, Oz Syndrome. Oz Syndrome is the progressive or instantaneous feeling of utter loss, confusion, and bewilderment. The inspiration for this diagnosis, is of course inspired by Dorothy and Todo’s experience in Oz. Although fictional, if we are honest with ourselves we can all relate to Dorothy and her time in Oz.

Have you ever felt like you were in Oz? Maybe you are now, or maybe you know someone who is. Oz can be a scary, especially if you feel alone. When we find ourselves in situations where we seem to be following a path leading to an unknown place those are the times we can no longer rely on our own sense of direction. The only way out of Oz is by trusting in God to guide you. We can click our heels; walk to the emerald city, and back to the beginning. The truth is, when we are lost, the only one who knows the way is God. We are not all lucky to have ruby slippers, but fortunately we have a God who we can pray to at all times. We have a God who is always with us, even when we find ourselves in Oz. As I was thinking about Oz, I was reminded of the parable of the lost sheep. How incredible is it, that we have a God comes to us and rescues us when we find ourselves lost and afraid. “Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices.” Luke 15:1-7