Some of my greatest heroes of the faith include female Christian writers who beautifully describe why the gospel matters to everyday living. Elisabeth Elliot, for one, explains the importance of an orderly and godly family life in The Shaping of a Christian Family. Leslie Ludy describes how modesty, humility, gentleness, and order in everyday life are evidence of a heart committed to the Lord in Set Apart Femininity. Anne Ortlund is very practical with her mantra of "eliminate and concentrate" in Disciplines of a Beautiful Woman. Each of these books has contributed to the value I have found in living a life committed to the Lord--committed not only through confession, but also through practice. For me, this includes embracing order, structure, organization, and thereby beauty.
I live on a schedule during the week--moderate rather than stringent, but a schedule nonetheless. I get up absurdly early--"while it is yet night"--to exercise (and chat!) with a friend, to have plenty of time to prepare both my appearance and my heart for the day, and to open my classroom a bit earlier than necessary so I'm ready to welcome and teach my 11th-graders.
In the afternoons, I either continue working (life of a teacher!), work out with some great (and athletic beyond my limits) friends, visit Nyenyezi (Thursdays only), or go out (read: buy food). Evenings are generally scheduled for me, between ladies' Bible study, campus Bible study, youth group, and campus potluck. Things change up (a little), but the routine is generally the same--and glory be, it's rhythmic, manageable, and ever so enjoyable for a number of reasons.
First of all, when I follow an orderly schedule, I have immeasurably more time to spend reading, praying, writing, and thinking through things. The soul's stamina increases dramatically when that soul is fed with God's Word regularly and significantly.
Furthermore, I can be a better teacher. My lessons are ready-to-go the moment students walk in the door, and I make them feel welcomed (I hope) by sharing a fun PowerPoint on adjectives or asking a thought-provoking question about life that will relate to the day's discussion.
Finally, I can enjoy sweet moments of a great variety. Sometimes it means noticing the glorious sunset, or having coffee with a friend. Sometimes I can chat with students or campus kids or other teachers. Sometimes I can read a book that speaks to my heart for hours, candle burning and chai tea within reach. When I structure and organize the time I have, I find there is more time that can be enjoyed.
And when moments are enjoyed, how I can I help but be ever more grateful for the revealed creativity, glory, and goodness of a wondrous God?
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