Off Duty

When my four children were babies, we would divide the nights into two shifts. The first shift was for the 9pm and midnight feeding of all four babies and the next shift was the 3am and 6am feeding. I usually picked the first shift to be “off duty”. I chose to have some personal time and sleep. I remember being at peace fully trusting that all was taken care of.

Last week, as I read my morning devotion the words “off duty” jumped off the page at me. Instead of trying to figure everything out, I can go off duty for a while, trusting that I am being watched over and others are working on my behalf.

I asked myself when was the last time I completely went “off duty”. As a single mom, an entrepreneur and working for a non-profit, my mind is constantly spinning, analyzing, planning and evaluating. The work day does not have a start and ending time. Reading the words and contemplating the question, caused me to evaluate this state of being.

I decided to post an “off duty” sign on my mind for a day.

I instantly remembered the baby years and how I felt during my “off duty” times. I had my sister to watch and care for my children, my mom and hired help. I fully trusted them and felt secure. I gave myself permission to just be and do what I wanted and needed in the moment.

Now, 20 years later, the choice to go off duty is solely mine. I don’t have the nanny’s or family to initiate it for me. I have the lesson and the benefits engrained in my memory. I can revisit that peace, trusting that all IS being taken care of.

The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7