By: Lt. Kristin Coriston

There's never enough time in the day, especially as a new officer.

The days are filled with meeting new people (still!), gathering information, organizing information, planning future things, tweaking every document folder on my computer, and addressing the in-the-moment happenings of office/church life.

So, as a newly married, newly commissioned pastor, I'm learning how to set boundaries and stick to them. A part of me feels like I can't afford to do that, yet, but I know early habits make permanent habits. We've been encouraged twice this week by senior (read wiser) officers of the value of creating and maintaining personal time.

So, today I'm writing this blog from the comfort of my couch, while enjoying a cup of coffee. I can hear lawn mowers in the distance, I can see two birds tending their nest outside my window, and I can feel a calmness enter my soul.

For this introverted girl, solitude is vital to my life and ministry.

This past Sunday, the Holy Spirit spoke to me through the Word (Ephesians 2:1-10) and reminded me of His intentions and plans for me. A part of that plan includes taking moments here and there to recharge and ready myself for service.

I'm full of gratitude for what God is teaching us here, and I'm loving the joy of this present moment.

And now to grab that second cup of coffee….