Freedom comes in many forms

Shortly after arriving at work this morning, I received a message to say that, effective immediately, my office is closed down until further notice, due to this Covid-19, so now I’m off work.

I didn’t quit, although I’ve been thinking about doing so for months. I wasn’t fired either. My office had to close.

I have no idea how long I’ll be off but I would guess it will be at least 14 days. As soon as I got home, I counted my stock of cat food. 14 cans. Perfect.

I have been wanting to devote more time to writing and speaking but have felt trapped in the ongoing cycle of working at a full time job that pays enough to almost pay my bills, enough to make sure I keep showing up every Monday morning.

I have been spared that awkward conversation of giving my notice.

Now, I have the freedom I’ve been longing for and, in true Covid-19 protocol fashion, I have interests and activities that enable me to relish the chance to stay home for two weeks!

Now I have peace and quiet away from the rushing retail crowds that surround my workplace.

In the middle of the current public health crisis, I find myself being quietly handed a gift that I have been looking for for months.

God is good. Being sequestered from the rush and panic of the retail environment is exactly what I needed to regain my peace and balance.

Philippians 4:6-7 rings so very true.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Peace which transcends all understanding. Peace when peace doesn’t make sense. Peace in trying times. This peace that comes from God will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus, the safest possible place to be. At any time!

So, as I sit at home, making good use of the first few hours of this break, I am grateful that God pulled me away from the crowds and set his peace around my heart and mind so I can focus my thoughts on him, and let him fill my thoughts with whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy.

In Jesus, God made the way to push out all our fear and anxiety and fill our minds and hearts with peace and beauty instead.

If ever there was a time we need a peace that transcends all understanding, this is it.
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For today, turn your focus to God and let him guard you with his wonderful peace.
One day at a time.