Not the Best Day, But It's Part of the Best Life

I had six and a half hours of church meetings today. Six and a half hours! Choir practice, regular church meetings, and a leadership training meeting. At one point, I realized I was tired and hungry, and I wondered why I was doing all of this. Was it my sense of duty? Was it because I just like to help people? Was it because I love God and want to do my best in the church assignments He has given to me this semester? I think it's a combination of all the above.

At some point today, I wondered whether my volunteer work in my church was making me miserable, especially during my last meeting when it was all I could do to stay there instead of heading off to make myself a sandwich and take a nap that instant. As I thought about it some more, I realized that my volunteer work was actually making me happier and more satisfied with my life. Sure, I have miserable moments like I did today, but I am happier and more fulfilled in the long run. Why? Because I believe I am accomplishing much good, just a little at a time. I am not entirely grateful for the immediate consequences of my church service. But, I am so very grateful for the long-term blessings and improvement I see in my life and in the lives of others, because I choose to be anxiously engaged in what I believe to be a great cause.