My peers and collective student body have long begun counting down the days remaining in this semester. For some, including myself, these are the final days of college. A new chapter is rapidly approaching. As much as I have been awaiting the day to once again wear a cap and gown, the countdown to that day is assimilated with my departure to Africa. In essence, I have the next 16 days to process what in heck has happened these past four year and then leave for 4 months.
Knowing what is ahead, at least for these summer months, while having responsibilities to complete in these remaining days lives in tension with my understanding of "being present." How can I wholeheartedly be here when a portion of my heart is elsewhere? I have been chartered with the task of leading a missions trip. That in it of itself demands devoted preparation. In addition to this two week trip, I am staying an additional three months. Talk about preparatory measures!
Such forward thinking has consumed my daily agenda. I see the vitality in discussing what is to come, but how does such conversation acknowledge the value of what is at hand? The resulting polarity has been simply exhausting. Of course it is.
I am thankful for this season of exhaustion. Because of it, I have gained a new desperation for God, His Word and prayer. This humanness is not capable of amounting to what is being asked of me, but Jehovah is my strength, shield and guide. This passage has been an immense comfort to me. May it also be for you.
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the LORD, is the Rock eternal. Isaiah 36:3-4
In Christ,
-Susan
-Susan
