Handing it all over to God--to rest in His love

     “And when the night comes, and retrospect shows that everything was patchwork and much one has planned has been left undone, when so many things rouse shame, and regret, then take all as it is, lay it in God’s hands, and offer it up to Him. In this way we will be able to rest in Him, actually to rest, and to begin the new day like a new life.”                                                                                      
                                                                                                        St. Edith Stein


     We all have days, and sometimes even weeks like this. We have so much to do, with so little time in which to accomplish it—or so it seems. Our day is planned and before we even get started, events move out of our control, and our plans are vastly changed, and sometimes even dashed.


     It can occur from a vast list of reasons: car problems, household issues, illness, weather, a work situation, a family member or friend in need, or a zillion other things.

     We fuss and fume and stress, as we try to adapt with the changes that have been thrust upon us. We feel annoyed and frustrated with the fact that is happening yet again! We try hard to convince ourselves, that this is just a little bump in the road and it will all work out okay, but deep down we are really annoyed! We feel like a little kid, who did not get their way and want to throw a hissy fit!

     In a graced moment, we see the ridiculousness of our reaction. This insight enables us to calm down and accept the reality of our situation. We are then able to operate with a clear mind, and begin to try to put our day in perspective.  We do what we are able to do, and adjust our schedules to our new situation. We try to remember that God is with us to help us to accomplish what truly needs to be done. We ask God for forgiveness for our shortcomings and lack of trust, and apologize to anyone who may have been affected by our reaction. We then ask God for the grace to do better next time.

     And unfortunately, for most of us, there will be a next time. As we grow in grace, and our relationship with God deepens, may we be able to join St. Edith when we have “one of those days,” and “lay it God’s hands, and offer it up to Him.” Then filled with God’s peace and assurance that we are His precious little child, we can rest in His love, as He showers us with the grace to begin anew.