Monday, January 26, 2009

Dearest God,

A new day is dawning. I realize more than ever that there is a time and season for all things. I have always felt drawn to that Ecclesiastes 3 passage. The pendulum is moving and I feel its effects.

I sat in a meeting talking about the kind of person needed to lead the church when I retire. We talked about a salary package and what kind of needs the church has and what qualities are needed in the next pastor. We became excited talking about it. I felt my energy draining away from me.

I look to you, God, to continue to buoy my strength. Recent events have taken their toll and some days it is hard to get out of bed and make it through the day. When I have night meetings, it sometimes is too daunting to think about being up and at the church for several hours. I feel so weary.

Yet, I feel so right about my retirement date. My season and time is nearly over. I have done what I could do. I will still remain engaged until my last days but my energy level hovers low. My health has brought me to a level that is difficult to maintain. I trust in you for strength.

You are
my strength,
O, Lord.
I trust
in you.
You are
my refuge,
a respite
from the storms
of life.
You remind me
that the clock
is ticking
but that
I do not have
to be afraid
because
you are
with me.
May I
bring delight
to you
in these last days
as I serve you
in the church.
What a privilege
I have had,
what a privilege.

Love, Andrea