You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11, ESV
As I was driving to work this morning, the sun was red—crimson, scarlet, and cherry are the words that come to mind. The experience literally took my breath away. I was astounded by both the beauty and the vastness of the wonderful picture before me. I took out my camera, wanting so desperately to make the moment last and have evidence of this scene. So I pulled over to the side of the road and I took a picture. And you know what? After I took the picture, I realized that nothing could capture this moment like just sitting and listening and absorbing. I realized I was going to have to simply trust the memory in my heart. So I sat for a long time, breathing deeply, looking intently, and listening to the world around me. I became lost in the brief moment in time. And then life called me back to my car, my commute, and the common routine of my day.
As teachers, I think we often have experiences like this. Sometimes I so badly want to record each moment and remember each victory. And there are times and seasons when it’s important to record what God is doing. But I am beginning to believe other moments in life are just gifts to our spirit. I am learning that in these moments, I need to practice being present. When I try to record them to have physical evidence, it takes away the beauty and joy of the experience.
This week, I encourage you to just be present in your classroom; to observe and enjoy the deep beauty that is happening all around you; to slow down and ask God what He wants you to see; to embrace the fullness of joy and the pleasures He has put before you…and receive the beauty of each experience.
Jesus, help us to slow down, see the gifts You have given us each day, experience Your goodness, and welcome the abundance of small moments through our days that reveal more of who You are. Amen.
Copyright Rebekah Hutchinson.
Rebekah is a member and a second-grade teacher in Vancouver, Washington.
7 Responses
This encouraged me:)
❤️
Thanks for the reminder! I get to laugh every day with students at my Christian school. That’s what I want to focus on.
Anita, what a blessing it is to enjoy the joy of the Lord every day with your students!
What a great reminder to be present and enjoy the gifts God gives us each day. Especially during this holiday season when our schedules become so full of things to do.
Eric, that’s so true – it’s especially important this time of year! God bless you!
Rebekah, thank you for sharing your heart by reminding us to slow down and notice the beauty and the joy of being present with God’s creation— both in physical nature and with those he’s placed us to work with. I don’t want to waste time living in fear by rushing around and not really having lived… to appreciate the full life Jesus has paid for. I so appreciate your thoughtfulness—- to remember to slow down and be.