“And we believe that what God creates is perfectly suited to His designs for it. Consider the sun: How beautifully suited it is to giving light! Or consider the eye: How beautifully it accomplishes its task of seeing! So too the new life He calls us into: We, as new creations, are perfectly suited to God’s intent for us.” - Andrew Murray, Abide In Christ
Hello friends! Of course this month has been full and unfortunately the days seemed to blend together at times. But I do not want my days to blend together. I often pray for long, slow days so that I can squeeze everything out of them. There are only so many. I do not want to live for the weekend or for whatever the night holds. I love my place of work too much for that. My next hope is to truly pray for slowed time when I’m doing something I do not enjoy.
Alongside prayer, another way I’ve found to combat the days blending together is to pay attention. I’ve found myself walking or biking to places quite a bit. The simple act of walking with my head up and eyes attentive is meaningful. I’ve always had a deep affinity for creation. I’ve always lived somewhere beautiful. I have always found myself playing in it and using the mountains as my own. I often consider those mountains. I consider the sun, my eyes that allow me to see. I’ve always loved trees, whether it be for climbing, their fruit or their colors. I love the turn of seasons. I’ve never lived in a place where the leaves turn so late until now, so I’ve been eagerly waiting for the colors and the cold.
Sure, there is a lot to pay attention to in my life as a Fellow. There is a lot more to remember with every passing day. However, I don’t believe there is more to pay attention to than there was when I was a child or in college. It’s a worked muscle. Maybe contrary to some, I’ve been more at rest these last couple months. Maybe to a certain fault, there is no anxiety or pressure. It’s as if I have more time as a Fellow.
So when I’m searching for joy throughout my time, I’ll continue to pay attention and consider. I’ll pay attention to myself, the world around me and others. I’ve found when you pay attention you cannot help but be grateful.
And as I remember October 2026, I am grateful. I am grateful for the house I woke up in, the retreats, the crisp morning air, the good food, my workplace, and the people I have spent it with. I count it all joy.
Samuel Sizick