Sunday Thoughts

As I'm writing this, we are well over a month into the COVID-19 pandemic with social distancing and staying home. And while I am writing another post to highlight many moments for our family during this unique window of time, today, my thoughts keep wrapping around our focus from church at home today. We asked each of the kiddos to write about the good they've seen during this time, to think about what has been hard, and to think why and how God has been in the details. Each one sat and shared simple yet profound truths highlighting so much power and faith in knowing that as they stay close to God, no matter what happens in the world, things will work out. I truly believe this pause in time they are experiencing in their youth from the routine of what they've always known is preparing them for great things where they will shine in their lives because they have this experience to draw from.

I felt drawn to talk about our scripture theme for the year. At the beginning of each school year, Mike and I choose one scripture to focus on for the year. Looking back, it's humbling to see how much that focus for each year truly ties in with life as it unfolds. And today was no different. Last August, we chose "Be Still and Know that I Am God" (Psalm 46:10). We'd hoped to bring this message intentionally into our lives as a tool for increasing the power of the present moment, of listening, and hearing God's voice in our lives. What we didn't foresee is how this scripture would apply in new layers connected to this current pandemic.

Experiencing a stillness and a true pause from the daily routine and schedule of life has always felt unimaginable, unthinkable and absolutely impossible. Yet, here we are. And with all of the uncertainty, disappointment and worry completely available for our minds and hearts (and trust me, we've all had our fair share of praaciting those emotions), the ultimate truth is how this opportunity opens the door for an even deeper reliance on God. His will. His timing. And practicing patience that while we don't have all the details, as long as we stick to Plan A (trust Jesus), the rest will work out. All of it. All the hard. All the wonderful. Weaves together into incredible moments that I have no doubt will be a hinge point of remembrance on our timeline of personal history.

And as we sat together today, so grateful to be soaking in church at home together, listening to the kiddos share glimpses of their faith journey during this time, I felt it.

The purpose in this place.
The growing that's happening here.
The stillness.
The light of truth.

That's the power we'll continue to ignite. That's the power we will continue to draw from.