Hello Chapter 39: A Birthday Reflection
Finding Glory in the Unseen: A Birthday Reflection… and a Surprise!
Hey Y’all! Thanks for stopping by again. Today is a special day. It's my birthday! But not just any birthday this is my 39th, and it feels especially meaningful. My mother passed away at 38, and I was just 8 years old. She never saw 39, but today, I’m stepping into this year with a heart full of gratitude, expectation, and determination.
Reflecting on 38: The Weight of Glory
My 38th year was an emotional rollercoaster. It stirred up deep reflection, sadness, and fear as I grappled with living through the year my mother never did. Would I make it beyond this milestone? Could I live fully in the way she never got to? I spent time grieving, reflecting, and wondering if I was enough—enough for my family, my calling, and even for myself. But GOD reminded me that the “momentary light afflictions” I faced were producing something far greater. Every challenge was part of a process, shaping me for an eternal purpose.
Yet, amidst the heaviness, there were also moments of celebration—celebrating life, resilience, and the grace that has carried me through.
This season brings to mind the powerful truth in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (CSB):
“For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an absolutely incomparable eternal weight of glory. So we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
Now, as I enter 39, I’m ready to embrace all that GOD has for me, committed to taking care of my mind, body, and spirit.
Shifting Focus: From Temporary to Eternal
It’s easy to get caught up in what we see,the worries, fears, the uncertainties, or the daily struggles of life. But I’m learning to shift my focus to what is unseen. GOD is at work in the quiet moments, in the places we don’t always notice. The love I pour into my family, the grace I extend to others, the prayers whispered in stillness all of it is part of HIS eternal work for sure.
Entering 39: Expectation, Trust, and a New Adventure
But that’s not all 😬 I have some exciting news to share! Surprise! The Cunningham family is moving out West to California! We’ve been called to lead the Metro L.A. Church, and I’ll be stepping into the role of Women’s Ministry Leader. What a blessing!
I’ll be honest, I’m nervous too. Moving across the country to a state where we don’t know many people feels a little crazy, right? But it’s also an incredible opportunity to trust the unseen. I’m reminded of how GOD worked when we moved to Mercer, New Jersey. The Mercer Church became family, and we fostered amazing relationships both inside and outside the church. HE’s always been faithful, and I know HE will continue to be.
I’m stepping into 39 with expectation ready to walk (and run) with purpose. Oh, the irony of that statement, since I’m currently wearing a boot on my left foot due to a tear from a fall a few months ago! 🤦🏾♀️ I was going about life as usual despite the pain, and yes—you read that right. But we listennn/readdd and do not judge, right..right? (I know my social media folks get this line lol) Quick P.S.A: If you’re experiencing persistent pain, please get checked by a doctor. You are welcome ❤️
Blooming in the Unseen
I’m determined to live with purpose, to love deeply, and to care for myself in ways I haven’t before. Our move to Mercer stretched my faith in ways I didn’t expect, but GOD’s faithfulness was evident every step of the way. I know HE will do the same as we move to California in 2025. It’s another opportunity to trust HIM, to bloom in unfamiliar soil, and to witness the “eternal weight of glory” HE’s producing in our lives.
I’m learning to bloom right where I am even in uncertainty and transition. GOD is doing a work in me that I can’t always see, but I trust it’s beautiful and eternal. As I reflect on this 39th birthday, I celebrate the life I’ve been given, the lessons I’ve learned, and the journey that lies ahead.
Thank you for walking with me through this season. Let’s keep growing, healing, and trusting together because what we see is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
With love and grace,
Zainabu Cunningham 🌸