Almost 18 years ago I had one of my most embarrassing moments. Matthew was less than 24 hours old and as I was holding him in my arms I burst into tears. Hysteria is a better word of it. When Todd asked me what was wrong I replied “I’m thinking about him going off to college.” We have laughed many times about that moment but I am not laughing today. I don’t know where the year went but like sand sifting through my hands that time is almost upon us. This is my sons LAST YEAR.

My closest friends describe me as passionate. About Christ. About my call but also about being a wife and mother. Especially about being a mother to my sons. Before starting this school year I made some decisions about my schedule but I continue to adjust as the Lord speaks to my heart. And as I listen God has confirmed that he wants me to live every year as if it is “The Last Year.”

The implications of this decision is that I am slower to say yes. No is used more frequently. I am flexible in what I have already planned. I also pray more about every invitation.

Years ago I was more rigid. Today even though I co-pastor with my husband, serve as an administrator for BCA, mentor women leaders in ministry and speak on occasion, I will put my family first even though it means adjusting my schedule at the last minute.

Today I felt the Lord wanted me to spend some personal time with Matthew instead of attend a weekly Bible study that my husband leads. Years ago I don’t think I would have changed my schedule on the day of. As I continue to learn to prioritize I know that my decision is Holy Spirit directed. So tonight, during this last year, Matthew and I will have a date night.

A year from now, when Matthew is off at college, hopefully I will continue to live everyday as if it is the last year.

Is there anything in your schedule that God is speaking to you about?