This is my least favorite time of year.

In Michigan where we live, this is the time all the kids go back to school. This has always been hard for me. I like the noise and chaos of my kiddos. And when the house empties out of all their conversation and laughter, my purpose flies right out the door with them. Other moms LOVE the return of peace and quiet, and I understand that too! 

I think the struggle lies with routine. It feels like we’ve just gotten used to summer—sleeping in and enjoying vacation, kiddos rummaging in the fridge at all hours of the day for snacks, coming and going from summer jobs and outings with friends—and then it all changes and we’re suddenly waking them up at 5:30 in the morning and trying to find enough hours in the day for school, music lessons, sports, and homework, not to mention our own to-do lists! And if we’re letting go of college-aged students, it can be even harder!

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5,6).

At times like this when the busyness of life bogs us down or the sudden quiet of an empty home robs us of purpose, turn to Christ and let HIM bridge the gap. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).