This.

“I made it through the year and I did not even collapse. Gotta say, ‘thank God,’ for that.”

2021 was a tough year but not without its beautiful lessons and reminders. I learned a prominent lesson in being present, something I had previously prided myself in but found I wasn’t truly living out. I was simultaneously longing for circumstances of the past while trying to race toward a future I could only believe would be better than whatever I was currently experiencing. What I learned was this is all I have. And whether this is delightful or difficult, this is it and, “this is the that I may long for later, so I should go ahead and enjoy it while it’s happening.” 

While I was learning this lesson God was also reminding me of his constant presence in my life. In a hundred different ways his reminders showed up at the perfect moments. They came in song lyrics and sermons, scripture verses and conversations. They came in the still moments of solitude and in the company of family, friends, colleagues, and students. I was reminded of his presence when I was overwhelmed with work and when I was overwhelmed by the goodness of the people I work with. I was reminded that he is with me when it feels like everyone is leaving and he is with me when I’m surrounded by those that I love most. 

I’m thankful for the lessons and reminders of 2021. I’m thankful for all the people who journeyed with me through the challenges, celebrated with me during the successes, and reminded me of God’s faithfulness. As we head into the new year, may we all remember we are here now and this is our moment. And may we also remember that, “Christ is here, he reigns now and always.”