Job Description

So, I've completed one full week of the new work schedule.  For the most part, it's gone smoothly.  Part of my new duties have included learning how to more effectively utilize Facebook and other social media outlets for the benefit of Son Broadcasting Network.

With the goal of encouraging participation in the Morning Show, I published an opinion piece that dealt with the topic of abortion protesting.  I put it on Facebook, and was hoping for some respectful dialogue either by comment or calls into the radio station.

There were a few comments made, directed at me personally, that really hurt.  Truthfully, I shed some tears over them.  I am tender hearted and it's a struggle for me when people don't understand or attack my position.

Now that the "storm" has passed, I'm able to step back and take a more objective look at what transpired.  While I can't do much about my emotion responses to hurt, I can prepare myself for future conversations that will undoubtedly take place with those who don't agree with my position.

As this world continues to drift away from Biblical values, it is only logical to assume that an ever increasing number of peers/listeners will take up positions that are in direct opposition to my value system.  Will I be able to clearly and respectfully defend my position?  Can I shine the light of Truth into a dark world?

A requirement of my job at the radio station is to stay up with news, and communicate the information effectively to those listening.  I can think of no better mentor from whom to learn this skill than Jesus.  He spoke to his audience the truth of God's Word, using stories that the people would understand. 

I'm no Jesus. I stumble over my words. I make bad analogies.  I sometimes get self focused and speak from the flesh.  But I always want to learn, and put into practice a better way!  Communication may be my degree field and my profession, but shouldn't it be in the "job description" of all believers in Christ?

We are called to be witnesses to the world of the Love and Salvation that comes through Him.  I encourage you to read the full story that unfolds in Acts 4.  I'll close with a few verses that served to be a great encouragement to me today:

Acts 4:26-29
"The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One.  Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed.  They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen.  Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. . . "

Our new normal

Many months ago when we were talking through schedules and the school days to come, it became apparent that I needed to be home in the morning hours.  After much prayer, job searching, and fretting (I'm not proud of that part), we have an answer to our family's needs--a different work schedule.
I'm so thankful to my boss(es) who made it possible for me to stay at Son Broadcasting.  While I used to be in the office by 5:45am, I now have the opportunity to get my girls ready for school, and join my co-host Dan for the second hour of the Morning Show, arriving at work just before 8am. 
I can already tell that this is going to require a great deal of adjustment for many.  It's honestly strange to be at home and see the family before I leave for work.  I have to work out a new personal morning schedule that will allow me a quite time to read/pray/think.  I want to be able to exercise, and get ready for the day somewhere in there as well.
The tween drama is rampant at my house, and the early morning hours seem to be a breeding ground for stressful interaction.
Coming into work "late" is also a strange sensation.  This morning, I had to fight the feeling that I just didn't belong anymore. 
God is good, and He will help us all fall into a new rhythm.  There will be different tasks for me to accomplish both at home and at work.
But until the new schedule starts to feel second nature, I will take it a day at a time.  Thanks to all of you who have been praying with/for me as we've strived to seek the Lord's will.