Filling April's Blank Spaces

Happy April! One of my favorite things to do at the beginning of each new month is to turn the page of my wall calendar. I intentionally purchased a calendar filled with beauty and Scripture that we can gaze at daily.

With my first glance at the new month, I usually skim the already written notes and appointments. Nothing inspires me like an upcoming event to prepare for! This season of life allows for more time in the schedule and freedom.

As I unveiled April this morning, I was met with a lot of blank space. For someone who thrives on activity, this was a bit disappointing. As we join the national effort to combat the corona virus by social distancing and staying home, the calendar must stay empty and schedule free.

For many, their schedules and homes are turned upside down, their days are full to the limit with children at home, homeschooling, eating at home etc. 

As our nest empties, those tasks are not needed. Which leaves a lot of free time. Wonderful huh? Being one who thrives on social connection and being a 'doer', this is sad news! Some adjustments need to be made, there needs to be a reason to get up each morning. 

Ever the optimist(!), these blank spaces can still be filled. First by counting blessings. There is always something to be thankful for, even in the midst of turbulent times. Faith, health, home and family. Time is truly a gift. The question is 'how can it best be used'?

The weather has been beautiful here and many hours are spent on the front porch. Books can be a friend! In the quiet moments, we can pray, pray and pray some more! While thanking God for His blessings, let's pray for our county, for our leaders, for those on the front lines of this pandemic. For the sick, for the grieving, for homes and families struggling in a variety of ways.

Days that cause us to fall our of our routine of going and getting things done can be counted as a gift. Ministry, relationships and service are things I dearly love 'to do'. But when all is stripped away, God is more interested in who we are becoming, that what we are doing. When right before our eyes, a raging virus, closures of every solid thing we partake in come, our lives are shaken. God is the only unshakable source and sometimes it takes removing things we lean on to be reminded of that. 

Will you join me this month as we shed our non-essential activities and efforts to seek God like never before. He is in control and can use this time to restore our hearts, homes and lives.