At the end of the summer, I decided it was important to make a habit of playtime. To set aside a few hours once a week where I don't reflect, work, or otherwise try to improve myself or my surroundings. It doesn't interfere with what needs to be done, but it nurtures joy and keeps me from thinking that I personally can solve every problem in the world. In fact, I made it one of my ministry goals this year.
Reactions to my goal have been surprisingly mixed. More than one minister has been downright derisive. Dave, I'm happy to report, is all for it. My Field Ed supervisor thinks it's a pretty good idea, too. (So far, he's a gem. But it's only been 16 weeks, so I'm holding off on making a judgment. On account of, you just never know.)
So, if you feel like praying for me this week, I'd love prayers to stay devoted to play and joy. I don't believe I can minister long-term without them.
How about you? Is there a discipline you need a little divine help to maintain? Is there anything else I can lift up for you?
Meditation on This Sunday's Gospel
14 hours ago
It seems to me that making time for joy (Sabbath!) is the mark of someone who has been in ministery.
ReplyDeleteTake all the inference implied.
Ministry. Trying to type from my phone. Should teach me not to be snarky!
ReplyDeleteI think NOT taking time for joy is a mark of someone who makes it "ministery!" (In my head, that's a merger of misery and ministry...)
Delete=)