Ever lose something and wonder where in the world it disappeared to? I lost my tablet pen recently and was convinced it had vanished into thin air. And just like that pen, sometimes I sense that something is missing in my life that was once there.

For days, I searched, convinced it was gone – forever. 

I retraced my steps. I checked everywhere and every bag. Those magnetic strips that are supposed to keep it in place are handy — unless you’re like me and set it down like a regular pen. After a while, I gave up and ordered a new one.

We’ve all lost things before. Maybe you’re even thinking of something right now that’s still missing. Some things we replace. Some things we move on from. And some things are irreplaceable, altogether a deeper loss.

But today, I want to talk about the things that feel missing but are, in fact, still there.

Missing your sense of calm? Replace it with a few deep breaths.

Missing out on something you really wanted to do because life got big and overwhelming? Replace it with an honest conversation with God.

Missing your carefree self because you seem to keep fumbling? Replace it with a good laugh, reminding yourself that you don’t always have to be serious.

In our faith journeys, there are moments when perhaps we long for what feels missing. Maybe it’s hope or joy. Perhaps you’re longing for a new start.

Breathe. Pray. Laugh.

These are rhythms I need in my own life.

But the truth is, the missing pen wasn’t the only thing that felt misplaced.

I’ve felt as if I’ve been missing from this writing space. It’s been a while since I’ve shared anything here, and it almost felt like my motivation had disappeared. But the truth is, it isn’t gone. It was just tucked away, waiting for me to create some new rhythms so I could find it again.

Quietly, in my own thoughts, I’ve been learning how to build those rhythms. They’re still forming, still settling into place, but I’m anticipating the goodness that will follow.

Maybe you’re missing something too.

Maybe you don’t want to do another load of laundry or mow the grass.

Maybe the world is too loud, and you feel out of sorts.

Or maybe you’re simply frustrated because you’re missing your car keys or your tablet pen, like me.

When things are missing in our lives, we can feel empty. But emptiness isn’t the place we stay when living with Christ. Maybe you’re only half full today and need a little encouragement that everything will work out. Your peace, your joy, your carefree self — they’re still there.

“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10 NKJV).

Jesus has given you an abundant life.

Jesus will fill the missing pieces. When He fills the spaces of your soul, you’re made complete and whole.

So, even when life feels as if there are some missing pieces, know that Jesus has an abundant, full life for you.

My replacement tablet pen came in the mail. And of course, that is when I found the pen that vanished. I sat down, and there it was, tucked away under a book and a journal.

Sometimes what feels lost is simply waiting to be uncovered when we slow down enough to take a deep breath and talk to Jesus about it.

But from there you will seek the LORD your God and you will find him, if you search after him with all your heart and with all your soul” Deuteronomy 4:29 ESV).

Even if we can’t always find what we’re looking for, we can always find Jesus.