Beginnings
It is January 1, 2025, the beginning of a new year. Thankfully for me this is simple. I just had to wake up this morning and do pretty much what I do every other morning of the year. Some beginnings are like that, simple. Some beginnings are exciting like when I held my son in my arms for the first time as I began the journey of motherhood. Some beginnings are refreshing like when we begin a new friendship or find a new hobby. Beginnings can stretch and grow us.
Some beginnings travel hand in hand with endings. These beginnings can be devastating like learning how to live life without someone you love. Beginnings can be bittersweet like watching that child you can’t live without growing up and starting a new beginning of his or her own. Beginnings can be complicated like starting new careers or taking on new challenges. Beginnings can be hard.
My husband and I are in the process of watching our baby birds leave the nest. We love seeing them starting new journeys. Their beginnings are filled with hard work and bright futures. We are happy for them, but there are some days that feel empty. There are days I feel empty, but my husband and I try to stay focused on the possibilities our new beginning as empty nesters holds.
As I have entered this new stage, I have felt a call to something new, but I don’t know which direction to move. I have tried to imagine and brainstorm and plan, but my efforts at finding direction have left me in a state of emotional and mental paralysis. I have been down this road way too many times before. You would think I would eventually learn my lesson and stop rushing around trying to find all of my own solutions, but I repeat this destructive behavior time and time again. As a Christian, as a Jesus Follower, I don’t need to figure everything out all by myself. I don’t have to know my final destination before I start. I need to trust in the One who knows what my future holds.
In Genesis 12:1 the Lord said to Abraham, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” and without any questions, Abraham did it. He just left everything to go somewhere knowing nothing but God is faithful. It worked for Abraham and I can testify to many personal experiences of God’s call in my life to new things. He has always been faithful when I have trusted Him explicitly. When I get to the place that I am ready to give up control, it is exciting to sit back and watch to see what God has in store for me. I love His creativity and, He never disappoints when I allow Him to show off. The Lord is always faithful to keep his promises, but He rarely chooses to be predictable in how He does it.
So where am I know in my new beginning? After exhausting every other possibility, I stopped doing and started praying, studying the Word, and actively listening for God to speak to me. When I asked God, “What do you want me to do? Where are you leading me?” God’s answer was simple. “Seek Me.” So here I am busy seeking. I look forward to sharing with you, whatever comes next.
