The week between Christmas Day and the beginning of the New Year has always felt like a quiet, slow time when not much gets done. This used to bother me. Even though I’d often be on vacation I would feel like I should be getting ready for the next sermon series or working on some long-range plans or, well, something!
I’ve learned to savor these days. They can provide an opportunity to rest, relax and renew. This week has already given me time to read thoughtfully, exercise thoroughly and find time to spend with my family.
The in between time has also allowed my brain to find space for creativity. In my quiet reading at least three sermon ideas have popped into my head. While enjoying time with my son earlier this week (we went shopping at IKEA) I recognized that he has become a really cool young adult. Here at the church this open ended time has provided space for long conversations with church members around a host of topics, many of them pastoral. The extra free time these last few days has reopened my eyes to the many gifts that are already an ongoing part of my life.
I tend to like being busy. I find comfort in a long to do list. The more active my work and play and family life, the more I feel like I’m getting stuff done. This week, however, I’ve rediscovered the joy of an empty calendar and a very brief to do list. Too often in my life busyness forces out the work of the Spirit.
My singular New Year’s resolution is this: To find time every day for the opportunity to be grateful for the love and the life I have received. This week has been a strong reminder of the way the Spirit can work when I am willing to open myself up to the sacred gift of time.
Grace and peace to you,
Glen
