Let the Day Unfold

Picture this: a pretty piece of folded cloth lies before you and you know there is something amazing folded inside. You have a choice: You might hastily tug, pull, and maybe rip the beautiful cloth (a treasure in its own right) to reveal the hidden treasure inside; or you might take your time, appreciating the feel and sheen of the fabric as you gently lift the folds apart. The choice is yours. You can stress and hurry to get to the “goal” or you can enjoy the moments along the way.

That’s what I’m learning during this period in my life. I’ve been retired for more than a year now. The first year, I worked on a book with my son and a friend, published it, and looked for ways to share the book with others. I went from being “busy” in my employer’s office to being “busy” in my home office. It was an amazing, joy-filled time.

Then…I waited, thinking the Lord would show me the next goal and I could get busy again.

I waited.

I talked with the Lord.

I waited.

I learned that sometimes the goal is to wait, trusting the Lord and following Him without knowing where He’s leading. Rather than getting “busy,” sometimes He calls us to “be still” and let the days gently unfold. (Psalm 46:10 NIV He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”)

There are times to just “be” and to have joy in the moment. Being ever mindful of God’s loving presence gives us the freedom to appreciate each treasured blessing as the day unfolds.