"Today matters to eternity."
I read this quote on Instagram this morning as I was getting ready, but that was by no means the first time I had read the statement. People just really seem to enjoy saying this, likely in order to feel a sense of purpose, to add value to each and every day.
Don't get me wrong--I believe this statement to be true. Every day is another step that we take, either in the direction of our Father or straying away from Him. We can continue to fall ever deeper in love with Him, or we can block out the sound of His voice and become lukewarm to His touch.
While in Uganda, I was so sure that my work was for the benefit of the Kingdom, that it truly did "matter to eternity." I believe with my whole heart that this experience was God-ordered; I simply obeyed the steps that He asked me to take. He blessed that time, blessed it so abundantly that my head is still reeling as I think about all that happened.
Today at work I strung 300 cotton balls onto a piece of fishing line for a retail display.
Meh. Not really seeing why eternity should care about that.
If I were comparing my experiences in Uganda to the things that happened today, or even this week, I'd have a difficult time not reminiscing or even idolizing the past four months. They were incredible, stretching, meaningful, and just all things good. But--and I'm preaching to myself here--life here can be so, so good too, if I will only let God do that work.
In all honesty, I had a great day. I read Hebrews 4 this morning, where I was reminded that participating in rest is an act of obedience. I got to go to work and interact with my boys, my coworkers who have made me smile and laugh more than anyone else since I've been home. Now I'm sitting in my precious apartment, writing and listening to a long forgotten album (Commoner's "Stories from the Garden").
I have to trust that coming home was just as much a step of obedience as going to Africa was. He can bless this season too, maybe even more, if I will open my hands to Him. I have the opportunity to share Jesus and be a blessing to the people I interact with here on a daily basis. I am a missionary here in Johnson City, Tennessee, too.
This is my life now. This is my new season.
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. --Psalm 118:24
I don't know if you can tell by my writing today (ha!), but these days I am really fighting for the truth. Friends, would you please pray that Jesus would help me claim and declare His promises over this transition season? Thanks a bunch! : )