The season I am in…
by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan
This morning, I had the joy of visiting Wheeler County Elementary School. I read Stella Star’s Chicken Farm to the third grade and A Friend for Festus to the fourth. Oh, what a morning it was! The students were bright, inquisitive, and so full of joy and questions. My colleagues and friends blessed my heart. I left feeling loved and inspired.
However, one question didn’t come from a student. It came from a former colleague:
“So, what are we calling this time away from the classroom? Retirement? What?”
My answer came easily:
“Freedom.”
“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” —Galatians 5:13–14 (ESV)
That word—freedom—has echoed in my heart all day.
The Lord has answered prayers I’ve whispered for years. In this 2024–2025 school year, He’s granted me the space to truly be present—a mama who picks her child up from school, cooks our dinner, and cheers from the bleachers. I’ve published four books since May 2024. I’ve started redefining my relationship with my husband, and I have begun to build community in a new place.
Now, don’t let the word “freedom” fool you. This has also been a season of humility.
I’ve submitted—more deeply than I ever have in my 47 years.
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” —Ephesians 5:21 (ESV)
I’ve submitted to my husband—both at home and in worship. I’ve honored his role as my spiritual and financial leader. I’ve submitted to God’s prompting—to write, to speak, and even to stay silent.
I’ve meditated on His Word and basked in His favor:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” —Psalm 119:105 (ESV)
I’ve served others when I didn’t feel like it.
“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls.” —Hebrews 13:17 (ESV)
I’ve found that true freedom doesn’t come from control or scheduling—it comes from surrender.
This season may look quiet to the outside world, but I’ve never heard God’s voice more clearly. In the stillness, He’s teaching me that I’m not hidden—I’m being refined. I’m not stuck—I’m being trusted.
From the day I turned in my contract UNSIGNED and stepped out of the classroom, my life has changed. Not all at once. One obedient “yes” at a time.
No contract. No hustle. Just Jesus. Just freedom.
Thank You, Lord, for Your sovereign will in my life, in my work, and in this sacred, quiet season of freedom. Amen.
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The Aging English Major 