Page 141 - Grace150 Devotional

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for
evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11
It was 1978 in late July when I answered the phone to hear, “This is heaven
calling!”
“What’s the message, heaven?” I recognized the voice of the secretary to the
Personnel Director of the Peoria Public Schools. We had spoken several times in
the past few weeks. “If you can be here by Friday to sign a contract, I have a Math
opening for you.”
I had sought a teaching job in Vermont, but nothing had opened up. Now it
appeared God was leading me back to my roots. My home church, my family, and
emotional support team were greatly needed as a single mom raising two sons
ages six and eight.
On the flight to Peoria that Friday afternoon, I looked at my teaching certificate
and was stunned. It expired that day! If not renewed I would need to complete
coursework before being able to teach. The plane landed and I drove as quickly
as possible to the courthouse. I ended up arriving 15 minutes before the Regional
Office of Education closed—with the stamp of renewal on my teaching certificate!
Not long after my move, Roger Hampton and I renewed our past friendship and
eventually fell in love. We will celebrate our 39th anniversary in April 2018.
God is in control. His perfect timing is always best!
Lord, we praise You that Your plans for us are good, that You give us a future
and a hope and help us every step of the way.
– Pat Hampton

devotions for the journey DAY 134