Reflections

Jacob just left for the airport awhile ago. His alarm went off at 5am, but he didn't move after he turned it off. I laid there in bed, waiting for it to go off again. I finally glanced at the clock, 5:06 -- the snooze wouldn't have gone off yet. The next time I glance at the clock it is 5:21 -- I must have dozed off and Jacob must have turned off the alarm instead of hitting snooze. I finally rouse him awake. "I couldn't go to sleep last night," he says. He didn't sleep well the past two nights, and so I didn't either. Jordan prayed at dinner that I would feel well today so I could spend a lot of time with her. Not sleeping well doesn't help my chronic fatigue and aches and pains. I pray I can spend a lot of time with you too, sweet Jordan. I pray keeping up with the kitchen and dishes won't exhaust me. I pray putting up the laundry that is overflowing the living room that Jacob sweetly folded last night won't exhaust me. I pray washing the bath towels that never dry from one use to the next in this humid city won't exhaust me. I pray going to our Bible study this morning won't exhaust me. I pray Jacob can finally get some rest on the plane. I pray his meetings could actually be restful and rejuvenating and not energy sucking. I pray that this overflowing plate of Jacob's to-do list will get more manageable. As I reflect in these early moments, while it is still quiet, I see how my crazy ailments and Jacob's overwhelming task list just feeds off of each other. I am thankful for the sweet family moments we had on vacation last week. I am amazed that even through rain and crowds, we managed to find some relaxation before the next months-- maybe even year-- spirals into a busy flurry. Oh Lord, this family won't make it without you. You alone know all we need, and I pray for your guidance and your hand as we begin this busy and exhausting season of life.