by Lt. Colonel Barbara Rich
Assistant Program Secretary
You’ve probably heard the saying, “The days may seem long, but the years pass quickly.” It’s often said to parents of young children and repeated generation to generation because of the truth it conveys. I heard myself remind my son and daughter in- law when I saw how hectic life is with two “littles.” Recently, I’ve needed this reminder as some days have seemed so long. I bet yours have as well.
In March 2022, a full two years after the pandemic created a new vocabulary and way of doing things, we sometimes feel like we aren’t making progress and are right back where we started. Many of us have gone from wanting life to slow down so we can savor wonderful experiences that at one time crashed into each other on our calendars, to wondering if we will ever gather in groups freely or speak to strangers without a mask or plexiglass shield.
Some segments of our society have seen stress-overload as their work requirements keep piling higher and higher on fewer employees, while others have been given additional time through “virtual” employment, with no commute, to think about their life’s goals.
Regardless of the segment of the workforce, last November saw a record 4.5 million people quit their jobs, according to the Labor Department. The phrase “The Great Resignation” was coined according to a morning news program. Whether or not you have been personally affected, you are aware of this disruption to daily living and likely have wondered where it will lead.
I want God’s insight as I struggle to make sense of life in daily segments. Sure, I’ve spent a bit too much time streaming the latest series of historical fiction (my favorite genre), but I’ve also tried to make time for a balance of Old and New Testament wisdom to keep my eyes steadfast on Christ’s goals for my life. Each of our lives fits into a greater narrative, and our own personal happiness or fulfillment won’t come from the distractions on our phones, at the end of our TV remotes or from our work shifting to a remote option.
What if this time of being “remote” is allowing us to be set apart and made holy for God’s purposes? If so, how are we doing?
The third chapter of Lamentations is rich with meaning for those facing uncertain times. After a litany of woeful experiences, the prophet says in verses 22-24 (NIV), “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.’”
You know what isn’t remote? Evidence of the Lord’s great love and compassion…His great faithfulness. He portions these out to each of us when we wait on Him, but we can’t be in a hurry if we want to fully experience all He has planned for us.
