Thursday, April 6, 2017
Gen. 17:1-8; Ps. 105:4-11; Jn. 8:51-59
Most parents look forward to the day their child graduates from high school. In my case, it was a time of highs and lows, a period of many changes. College tours, SAT prep and admission applications were all a part of the process, in addition to high school courses and extracurricular activities. Also, don’t mention the pressure from family and friends concerning post-graduation plans. This whole ordeal was time consuming and very emotional. Since I have only one child, it was a reality check that she would be leaving home soon to start her own life as a young adult. This time was bitter-sweet to say the least. It was a time of transition for all of us.
In the meantime, I began a spiritual journey to seek God’s wisdom and trajectory for my life. Of course, prayer was a huge part of the journey. But I also searched the scriptures for times of transition. I meditated on the hymn, “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” and 2 Corinthians 5:7. In addition, church members at Bayshore who had gone through this transition were a source of solace. Day by day, I could see a change in my attitude, emotions and an inner peace. My outlook was brighter and I was looking forward to becoming an “empty-nester.” I thank God for the first 18 years of parenthood. Now, it’s time to move on to the next stage of parenting. I’m still a “work in progress,” but I’m excited and expecting that God will do a mighty work in me. To God be the glory!
—Dr. Vandelon “Van” Holland