I was ready to walk out the door when I got the call. I had gotten up at my usual ridiculous time, drug myself through my usual early morning exercise routine, had my quiet time & coffee, showered, a little makeup, a fast blow-dry. Scrubs on, shoes tied, pockets loaded.Ready, but not quite so eager to head to the hospital.

My husband got home late last night from 10 days of working in China. He used to travel over there quite a bit when our kids were younger, but thankfully hasn’t been going as much since we’ve become empty nesters. I was always sad when he’d have to leave us, but at least I had the kids as a distraction.

Now it’s just me. And our Shihtzu. And our very strange cat.

So when he came in last night, I was thrilled. But asleep. I tried to stay awake, really I did. But I’ve been so tired after being sick for the last week that my body just wouldn’t let me. I felt his gentle touch of hello and I shot out of bed trying to pretend like I wasn’t asleep. He gave me a giant hug and a quick kiss before sending me back to bed because if anyone knows how tired I am, it’s him. He gets a perpetual front-row seat to the bizarre exhaustion of Lupus.

I love my job, but I really didn’t want to go to the hospital today. I wanted to be with him. I wanted to hear about his trip. I wanted to watch him doze off as he promised that he wasn’t tired. I wanted to unpack his suitcase. I wanted to hear him play with our Shihtzu. And harass our cat. He’s just so funny with our cat. And I really wanted to make him some muffins. He loves muffins. And so does our Shihtzu. She really loves muffins, too.

But instead I was heading out the door.

Until my phone rang at 0600. I was canceled for today. Taken off the schedule. Not needed. Set Free.

So now I’m heading into the kitchen to make those muffins. And I’m thinking about how much more I’m going to enjoy this day off since it wasn’t mine to begin with. I didn’t earn it. I sure don’t deserve it. It was a gift. Just like the grace, mercy, and forgiveness I received through the love of Jesus. I’ve been set free. Not just for today, but for eternity. Yes … I’m free indeed.

Thanks for growing with me. ❤

“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36)