Our house was quiet, and I began to picture snapshots of joy that had occurred in that living room. One daughter’s first steps, my mom squeezing into the girls’ playhouse with them, Barbies everywhere, dog toys in a basket by the television. My father and husband enjoyed spa days replete with tiny ponytails in their short hair, carefully created by their tiny hairdressers. We played Candyland by candlelight during monsoons and had marvelous holiday gatherings. I wondered what new joy might come to our home. I wondered if I’m supposed to be doing more with the blessings God has given me. I asked Him what His will entailed, right now, at this phase when midlife is in the rear view mirror.
I ask sometimes, afraid of what the Lord might say. I ask sometimes, confident in His will, ready to tackle His next project. This time, I thought He might say, “Write a book” or “get involved with that charity” or “adopt a kitten” (that one was very wishful thinking). Instead, in the quiet room on our comfy couch, God planted this answer in my head. “Love people and take care of them.” Oh, but I’m already doing that, Lord. “Keep doing that, multiply doing that. Loving people is something you can do until the day I take you home.” I’m pleased that I’m doing God’s will. I’m challenged to do more because it is a broad command; I’m challenged to hone in on specific people, because it is an intimate command.
What the Lord told me is nothing new. He told us all, “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” Do I still want to write a book? Maybe. Do I still want a kitten? Yes! The timing isn’t right today though. Sometimes, God says we should keep excelling at what we are doing, with the added passion and strength and direction He gives. I can joyfully do that for my people, for His people, for His glory. You can do whatever He asks of you, too, with His grace and guidance. He will prepare us and plant His Word in our hearts. Living in God’s will is exciting, isn’t it? ~Tracy