Ever had a day that just didn’t turn out at all what you expected?
As I’m typing this entry for the next blog, that’s the kind of day I’ve experienced.
From wake up til right now, it’s all gone south.
Some days are like that.
I could certainly be discouraged and frustrated, because it has meant that what I hoped to accomplish on the day’s agenda did not happen (except maybe this post – ?)…
Meanwhile, my husband is telling me that he thinks he’s about two-weeks ahead of schedule (a little inside joke)…
I’m not laughing.
But, I do have this one practice at the end of every day that often changes everything…
….and, yes, it did this one!
This “practice” is an improvised version of an ancient spiritual discipline (one that encourages looking back and evaluating the day for the benefit of “carpe diem” (seizing the day; making the most of the present and giving thought toward tomorrow).
In my variation of the practice of Examen, I begin with review.
First, what went well in my walk with Jesus and for what am I grateful (I look for at least three things for which to be thankful)?
Secondly, how can I do better tomorrow (can I redeem today by learning from it for the future’s sake)?
Finally, where did I see the Lord; hear His voice; sense His smile; or became aware of His presence?
That’s what I just finished doing; and, here’s the value:
Today didn’t look like what I intended, but it was exactly the day the Lord wanted me to have.
In spite of not ticking things off my to-do-list or life going according to plan, today held some very sweet moments; some lovely, spontaneous, meaningful connections with dear friends; a random, well-timed verse of Scripture that spoke volumes to my heart; and, a vacation-in-a-cup (coffee) on the back porch in my hammock-chair, while simply reflecting on what was great about this mixed-up, perfect day.
So, here is this very brief offering to simply say what I just did.
You may be having one of these kinds of days.
It’s no mistake!
And, it’s going exactly as the Lord planned it to go (especially if everything about the day is out of your control, as mine has been).
How do I know?
Here’s the random verse that popped out of nowhere into my thoughts and, as it floated around, I grabbed onto it for all it is worth:
So, if you’re having ONE OF THOSE DAYS that aren’t going quite as planned, well, look for what HIS PLAN might be instead!
You could be surprised that you’ve had a absolutely perfect day after all!
