As I’m sure most of you know, I recently graduated from Ashland University in December. Prior to graduation, I had fears of moving back home. I like my independence, I was quite fond of my apartment, and I loved my AU community. Ashland was a place that fostered a Christ-centered community for me. That’s where my relationship with the Lord really took shape and it’s where He called me to the race. Moving back home would mean a loss of independence and being able to do what I want, when I want and it would mean the loss of community. I’ve struggled being home during the summers because my town lacks a young adult community and I was afraid that moving back home would mean being alone all.the.time. I was scared and nervous of how this transition would go.
I’m about a month and a half post-graduation, and I’m surviving! I’ve been able to reconnect with old friends and begin to rebuild those friendships. Recently, I was hired at a local grocery store/deli/café in Plain City. Basically, I take orders, slice meat and cheese, and work the register. I thought I’d hate it, but it’s turned into a huge blessing. I’ve only been there about 3 weeks, but I love this job. My coworkers are all young adults, so in a strange way these people have become like a little young adult community for me. Although many of them are not Christians, they are constantly saying and doing things that guide my thoughts to Christ. Even though some of the work we are doing isn’t the greatest, most fun thing ever, their constant joy and smiles rub off on anyone around them. God has shown up in so many ways throughout this job. My bosses are Christians, and I have been able to experience them ministering and serving selflessly their customers and employees. These are people that I can learn a lot from, and I’m excited about that.
In this new season, God’s been showing me that I need to slow down and enjoy where I am at right now. I want so badly for my time to launch on the race to speed up and get here, but He’s constantly reminding me to be present in the here and now. I believe that He has more for me at home and I don’t want to miss Him while I’m wishing away the next 8 months. So instead of asking Him to help me just to get through till launch, I need to be asking Him what He wants me to see, who I need to speak to, listen to, or pray for. I need to be seeing my world through His eyes and viewing everyone through the eyes of Christ and as someone who needs to experience the love of Jesus. Every customer I interact with, I have the opportunity to serve and love.
I never thought that God would use a simple, part-time job to teach me something before my race, but I am so glad that He has.
