Early Riser

Callie and I committed to rising early this Lenten season, to ensure time with the Lord in the mornings. I must admit that when my alarm goes off at 6:15 it is a daily struggle to get my sleepy body out of my warm bed.

But, as has been the case each morning, as soon as I am up and awake I am thankful for our commitment. The extended time to prepare for my day is always an encouragement and the time spent resting and reflecting in God's word is life giving.

After Josh's interview in Ohio last weekend (which went really well!), we are in the midst of a waiting game until March 15. These weeks are a combination of mystery, hope, as well as a smidge of fear with so much unknown. These comforting words from Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands by Paul David Tripp were a wonderful reminder to not give my heart over to a spirit of fear, but to trust and rest in the Lord.

There is comfort in your moment of greatest mystery. There is encouragement in your time of greatest confusion, and hope in your moment of greatest discouragement. Your world is not a world of constant chaos controlled by impersonal forces. Your destiny is not in your hands or in the hand of other people. You are held in the hands of your heavenly Father, who rules everything! You are a child of the King of Kings and you live under the shadow of his wing. You are part of his plan.

There is reason in the mystery and order in the chaos, because behind it all stands the One in control of it all.

An early morning view from our porch. 

Thank you Lord, for the hope found in the morning!