It is so quiet.  Just the gentle breeze whispers softly by as I begin this day – this new beginning – with a very grateful heart.

Yesterday was my last day at work.  21 years of working for the same institution.  Oh, how I struggled with this decision to leave.  I felt the rumblings of this call to new things long before yesterday. 

I argued.  I reasoned.  I ignored. 

Yet, the One who was calling waited patiently.  When my delay caused unnecessary pain, He reminded me of His desire. 

In the midst, I learned that delayed obedience is disobedience. 

This morning I was reminded of Jeremiah 29:11-13. 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  They you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you.  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

The One who laid the foundations of the earth; set the margins to the seas; knit my very being together in my mother’s womb has a plan for me (and for you).  His plan brings prosperity and when translated it is defined as completeness, peace, contentment. 

So this day, I settle in to the grace that comes from His hand.  I rest in the peace of His leading and the hope of a future planned before I ever knew.