Overwhelmed

That word, overwhelmed. It can give off quite a vibe...chaos, craziness, “too much”. Stress, burden, anxiety. But on the opposite side of the “overwhelmed” spectrum, there is also abundance, gratitude and humility. I have felt both ends of the spectrum this week in big, deep ways.

Packing for a family of 5 for 6 months (let’s be honest, I packed for 4 and someone else packed for 1), cleaning house for a 6 month tenant to move into, finalizing travel plans, and mentally preparing to be away from friends and family for an extended period of time, hugely topped with the sudden passing of our precious pup, Owen. Feeling overwhelmed has been an understatement, particularly sadness in mourning the loss of our dog. Yet, amidst it all, the way that our friends and family have shown up for us has been equally as overwhelming. God’s love and peace have surrounded us. From farewell dinner gatherings, help with the kids, texts, calls, extra packing hands and “last” dinner or hang out dates...to prayers, encouragement and a sense of genuine support for the adventure that our family is going on, we have been humbled. Incredibly humbled. How do we deserve all this love? Despite other people’s own busy lives, they have made time to celebrate with us, cry with us, and send us off with strong arms of support. They have been intentional in their relationships with us. How could I ever fully thank these precious people? 

As I ponder all that has occurred, particularly over the last week, I feel challenged...and I hope to challenge you as well. Do I give to others the same that has been given to me? Do I put others before myself in times of praise as well as suffering? God calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves. Our first lesson of this family sabbatical is to examine the way that we care for others. It is a divine act when we sacrifice our time, our homes, and our money to love and serve others. And it points us to Jesus—the ultimate sacrifice.

So as we embark on Day 1, my prayer for us andfor you is that God may “teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12) Life is short, friends. Live it well. Live it fully. Live it with passion and purpose. What are you waiting for?

And finally, a blessing from Psalm 90:17:

“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us.” 

Use this time away, God, to deepen our family’s relationships, to grow our hearts and minds and to pursue what You have planned for us. You have work for us to do on this journey...and time will reveal exactly what that is....in our new paradise pace. Amen.