I wasn’t sure I was going to post anything this week. I usually post on Thursdays, and the Thursday that happens tomorrow is Thanksgiving. We’re supposed to spend the day eating and being grateful.
All while plotting our Black Friday strategy, right?
The original plan for today – best laid, no doubt – was to hit the zoolights with friends this evening. My family has in recent years simplified the Thanksgiving holiday by picking up the Bob Evans Feast and reheating it for our midday meal. Our bigger gathering(s) and out of town guests happen in December. So Thanksgiving Eve is free from food prep obligations.
The weather forecast changed today’s activity forecast, however.
I thought I had enough stress and anxiety on several fronts in my life, but wait there’s more!
Whatever weather front is moving through with sustained winds of 25 mph and gusts to 50 or 60 mph has jacked my anxiety level another notch or two. I’m not sure why. Have you experienced anything similar? I’m pretty fearless as a general rule. I paused to ponder why I was so stressed, and I realized the crazy wind really was adding to the problem.
A couple of us with lingering sinus issues said nay to being outside at the zoo and rescheduled our friendsgiving activity for later in the week. Ah relief! I now don’t have to figure out how to catch my breath in extra ugly conditions, plus I have a few extra hours to devote to my to do and want to do lists.
I’m always praying without ceasing, but sometimes I get behind on my devotional reading. This morning I declared a hard stop so I could read two days at once and all of Colossians 3. The Almighty had a message for me. Maybe you’ll get something out of this, too.
I was looking specifically for this passage:
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” ~Colossians 3:23-24
I hate doing shoddy work. (The Message translation uses the word “shoddy” in the next verse.) I have let go of much perfectionism in my life, but I hate not at least striving for excellence. Some of you may be “amening” (amenning?) those statements as they apply to your own life. Others may be listing off reasons why excellence is not possible.
I’ll display some grace and stop short of calling them excuses, but note I said striving for excellence.
We’re not necessarily responsible for outcomes. God is.
Today I am grateful for coffee as I write this, God’s grace, peace, and provision, and the anticipation of large amounts of potatoes tomorrow. For release from a long list of things weighing me down. And for the hope of excellence that follows.
