Who remembers the song, “The Party’s Over” by Willie Nelson?
Turn out the lights, the party’s over
They say that all good things must end
Call it a night, the party’s over
And tomorrow starts the same old thing again
I woke up today with this song running through my head. Yes, I’m weird like that. I’m guessing because it’s Monday after two weeks filled with Holiday parties and excitement, this is how I am feeling.
As Christians, we’re called to live for today, trusting in God’s sovereignty and goodness. Yet, we often find ourselves torn between two opposing forces. The excitement of anticipating special events, and the comfort of routine.
On the one hand, Looking ahead to exciting events like vacations, holidays, or milestones can bring us joy and motivation. We eagerly count down the days, imagining all the wonderful experiences and memories we’ll create. The anticipation can be a gift, giving us hope and something to look ahead to.
On the other hand, an overemphasis on anticipating special events can lead to discontentment with our daily lives. We might find ourselves constantly wishing we were somewhere else. Wanting to do something more exciting, rather than living in the moment. This mindset can cause us to miss out on the beauty and blessings of our everyday routines.
Routine, while often viewed as mundane, provides a sense of stability and structure. It allows us to form healthy habits, nurture relationships, and grow in our faith. Routine can be a means of worship. We are called to offer our daily lives to God and seek to honor Him in all we do.
None the less, routine can also become monotonous and stifling if we’re not careful. As Willie Nelson put it, “the same old thing again.” We might feel like we’re just going through the motions, without any sense of purpose or passion. This can lead to feelings of restlessness and discontentment.
So, how can we navigate this love-hate relationship with anticipation and routine?
As I was processing this morning, a thought came to me. Whatever the Holiday or exciting event, could we treat each day the same way?
What brings excitement to holidays and special events?
- Creating memories
- Laughter
- Love
- Serving
- Preparing
- Family
- Friends
When I look at this list, I realize, I can have this excitement in my day to day routine. I can experience what I love about the holiday or big event without all the work.
I should be in servant and in preparing mode, praising Him every day. I can always find ways to serve others, being His hands and feet.
I can choose to see the mundane of everyday life as a new opportunity. It’s a chance to love, laugh, serve, and create memories. Whether our family and friends are close or far away, we have opportunities to serve them.
Technology can be frustrating and even a bit scary, but let’s choose to change our perspective. That same technology provides us an opportunity to love and serve others far away. To keep connected with them and check in on them.
My praise is a direct reflection of the thankfulness in my heart. And, my thankfulness in all things needs to be of equal measure.
Holidays and special events bring excitement and joy that pretty much smack us right in the face. But, just because they are extraordinary times and give us a rush, doesn’t make them more praise worthy.
“So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him.”(2 Corinthians 5:9 NIV)
“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Do all things – even the mundane, the day-to-day grind, to the glory of God. Find joy in your day to day journey as well as the big exciting times!
I pray as we navigate the excitement and mundane of life, that we learn to appreciate the beauty of both anticipation and routine. May we find joy in the everyday moments and trust in God’s sovereignty over all things.
With love and joy,
Laura
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