Lent Day 27: Thankful for milestones (2012)

This memory comes from a few days before I finished my PhD dissertation. I remember the stress of that time, and want to encourage you - if you are in a season of high challenge, worry, or discouragement - that "this too shall pass." We live life one day at a time, knowing God is able to help and sustain us. Whatever your cares today, bring them to Jesus "with thanksgiving" for the opportunities to get to know him better and have him walk with you. He can give you peace and joy in the middle of it all.

(2012) We're in the second half of Lent. I miss my night snacks, a bigger discipline than one might suppose. I'm not suffering, just missing something. It's a small reminder of Christ's sacrifices, living among poor villagers, walking from town to town, sharing good news with those who refused to be saved. And then dying. That awful dying. Before the glorious resurrection that proved his mission and God's power to redeem us. In a small way, the disciplines of not eating and Lenten writing help me to remember.

It's blustery and pouring rain, a good excuse to stay inside and study today instead of walking the dogs. In our hilltop neighborhood of firs and tall maples, branches crash to the ground, so high-wind walks are a dumb idea. The cedars whip across the property line outside my office window. Our baritone chimes ring on the back deck, shouting joy and strength instead of complaining to the whistling air. (Click on audio to listen.)

I need that melodic encouragement as one of the biggest milestones of the last five study years approaches. Next Tuesday, I defend my dissertation before an academic committee.

I'm afraid. Anxious. My body's on high alert, tummy packing on a little fat roll, back knotted, and feet bouncing in nervous rhythms. My inner conductor stays in full swing, songs tumbling through my head night and day. 

By this time next week, I'm hoping to be writing revisions. As the milestone of the defense approaches, I'm praying for focused study, quickened thinking, and clear speaking. I'd appreciate your prayers, too. [6 years later (2018): all went well with minimal revisions. The degree has been utterly useful and helpful.]

What milestones lie on your horizon? Some of you have medical treatments, financial deadlines, and relational challenges. Post a comment and we'll pray along with you that the fire of the Spirit will illuminate your path and your flight.

Read more:

*The Lord will give strength to His people. Psalm 29:11 (NKJV)

*Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NIV 

*In Christ Jesus you have been enriched in every way - in all your speaking and in all your knowledge. 1 Corinthians 1:5 (NIV)

Moravian Prayer: Gracious Redeemer, we thank you for empowering us today to speak for you. May we listen closely so the words we speak are truly the words you would have us speak. In addition, may our actions state an unmistakable message from you. Amen.