Let nothing disturb thee,
Nothing affright thee;
All things are passing;
God never changeth;
Patient endurance
Attaineth to all things;
Who God possesseth
In nothing is wanting;
Alone God sufficeth.
-St. Teresa of Avila
I want to cry while reading this prayer. I'm feeling tired, pregnant, and overly emotional today. Being pregnant is so odd - I can't tell if I'm close to tears because of hormones or exhaustion. It may be both. Whatever the reason, though, I feel weary. I feel like free time and rest are far-away thoughts. I feel like there's so much good going on, and yet, there's always something going on. My feelings are not totally trustworthy these days, but they are definitely worth considering. So I'm pausing today to remind myself who God is.
Let nothing disturb or unnerve me, God. This season, these busy days - they'll pass. But you remain constant through it all, never changing. Grow my patient endurance. Grow my capacity to work well. Let me say yes to what is worthwhile and no to whatever distracts me from pursuing you. Help me see what is service and what is obligation. You provide all I need.
I see that so clearly right now, and again, tears are coming. As I write these words, you're protecting my time and giving me a gift of freedom. I had a long night ahead, things I was looking forward to, but nonetheless, adding to my full day. Both had to be rescheduled, and I find myself with a completely free evening ahead. Thank you, Jesus. I didn't ask for this gift - I didn't even know I wanted it! And now, I see that in him, we want for nothing. We are cared for, we're understood. He is sufficient. He's all I need.
May I trust your steadiness and your character. You are good, and I'm so thankful for how you practically love me. Thank you for time. Thank you for rest. I love you.