The past three years have been like no other period of my life. As a younger person, I worked full-time while also juggling care of my home and family. I have been deeply involved in church and community work over the years. I also love spending time with friends and family. Travel, hobbies, sports, and outdoor activities have been pleasant diversions.
Then, with no warning, the world as we knew it came crashing to a halt. The pandemic changed all of our lives. Only now are we gradually resuming a normal life. Yet, even though the world around us is getting back to normal, my life remains quieter than it was before. A year and a half ago, I moved from my home to a 55+ condo community. Because we have about 80 residents living in close contact with one another, we have strict health protocols.
Living in a vulnerable senior community as I do means that my fun activities have been more curtailed than they would have been if I had been living alone. Nonetheless, with reasonable caution, I can still come and go.
No longer do I have a chock-full calendar. A blank spot on the calendar brings a sense of anticipation as I wonder what will happen to fill that day. I normally go for a walk, enjoy reading a book at my favourite coffee shop, and then — who knows what other adventures may come my way!
I do not have to justify my use of every hour of my day, but as I look ahead to a blank slate of a day, I can ask God to bring people into my path and bring thoughts to my mind of beneficial things to do.
Non-routine can be a good thing. It’s been good for me to step back from my previously busy lifestyle. I know that these quiet, not-so-busy days may not last forever, so I am enjoying this peaceful period of life for now.
Rather than begrudging the things that I can’t do, I focus on enjoying the simple, quiet life that I do have. Scripture gives us guidance on living a quiet, peaceful life.
“Fear of the Lord leads to life, bringing security and protection from harm.” (Proverbs 19:23 NLT)
“Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.” (Philippians 4:11 NLT)
“Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before.” (1 Thessalonians 4:11 NLT)
Can we learn the secret of living quiet, yet worthwhile, productive lives? We can trust God to use us for His purposes regardless of the stage of life in which we find ourselves.
Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, calm our spirits as we walk through our frenetic world. Give us peace as we rely on You to lead us and protect us. Amen.
Copyright © 2023, by Gail Lundquist <gail10833@gmail.com>, first published on the PresbyCan Daily Devotional presbycan.ca
Beaverton, Oregon, USA
Used with the permission of PresbyCan and author.
