Rachel Whisman

I pass a countdown every day in the hallway of my school that reminds me of the remaining days left until summer. When around others, the leading question I get asked is, “How many more days until summer?” Genuinely, I do look forward to this upcoming break. It is a blessing. Who wouldn’t be? My body is tired. Providing my mind some rest and not making another decision concerning 22 students is alluring. Diving my nose into a book and the nearby pool will be on my agenda. However, I secretly don’t like this question because it tempts me to be discontent with the work the Lord has for me to do today and grumble and complain about what I don’t have.  

This season of teaching for me is almost over. However, I am not at the finish line, nor am I supposed to be. The Lord has made this day, in May, for me to continue teaching these 2nd graders how to read. You might be in a season where you see the end approaching, as you might be graduating from college, are ready to tie the knot at your wedding, or are about to welcome a new baby into this world. The end doesn’t seem to be approaching quickly enough, and you might be disgruntled with the waiting. I encourage you to look to Jesus’ pace in these moments where you know it will soon be over. Look to Him as He was in no rush or hurry to do the next thing, but to be present with those around Him. This moment. This day. This time. Where your feet are is what the Lord has made, and He has called us to respond by rejoicing and being glad in it. 

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24

We can rejoice and be glad because Christ is with us as these days might tarry along. We are not alone, but equipped with His Spirit to praise His name. The Psalm is not singular but plural. It does not say, “me” but “us”. It is a group endeavor to encourage and exhort one another.

Your time might be coming to an end, but there is nothing you can do to make it go faster. You can’t rush it, so enjoy these few moments you have left. Continue turning to the Lord in prayer as you finish well. For me, summer will come. It will eventually arrive. Your day will arrive as well. The days are evil. Enjoy the time that God has provided. Lean into the Lord in this time and let Him be your strength and not your daydreams. 

“For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.” Psalm 107:9