Class of 2039!

My son is completing preschool this week. Our week is full of class parties, closing ceremonies, kindergarten orientations (He is the graduating class of 2039… let that sink in!!!), and family celebration dinners. All that being said, we have much to celebrate this week.

On Sunday evenings, my wife and I try to sit down for a few minutes and make sure our schedules are synced. I have to admit that when I first saw all of the celebrations on our calendar, I got a bit annoyed. I mean, I have a lot of important work to do! But then I gently felt the Spirit nudging me, inviting me to slow down and be present to all the great things we get to celebrate as a family this week. God reminded me that life is made up of much more than work.

Today I invite you to PAUSE.

Take a few deep breaths in and out.

Pray.Holy Spirit, quiet my body, mind, and spirit as I pause to be aware of your presence in this moment.

Take note of the season you are in.

Reflect. Are you, like me, often stuck in go mode, possibly missing the opportunities God is inviting you to slow down and celebrate his goodness?

Pause.

St. Paul famously proclaimed, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” (Phil. 4:4)

Notice. St. Paul tells us to rejoice in the Lord.

Perhaps you are in a difficult season, and life is filled with more lamenting than celebrating. That is all the more reason to rejoice in the Lord.

Pause.

Pray. Holy Spirit, guide my heart and mind to rejoice in the Lord in whatever season of life I may be in. Show me what this looks like today, in my real and actual life. Amen.