In June of 1994 I sat before an ordination council and was asked what was my favorite scripture? I answered, Psalm 46:10 “He says. Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted in the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Truth is, that was simply the verse I had memorized for my devotion that day…I was nervous and couldn’t think of anything else so I spouted that out. I was applauded for being so young yet having a verse about being still as a life verse. I took the praise…but not the counsel.
I live a pretty fast pace. I freebase on caffeine and I love getting things done. I love lists, working on the lists and then moving on to the next journey. However, I have learned in the last month that in that pace is not only a path to burnout but it also keeps one from growing. I have needed some emotional healing for some time and only recently have I begun to deal with things because I have learned to slow down. Not my work schedule but my Spirit.
We do need to sit still sometimes…especially in this noisy tech world we live in but the Psalmist I believe is concentrating on having our Spirit be still. I am learning that this journey of life is a marathon not a sprint.
I am committed to living on James Island till I am old. I am committed to this Church till I retire. I know that is a bold statement but it gives me a peace I have never had before. You see, not looking for the next thing allows me to think long term in my ministry here at JIBC. It allows me to work on loving my God, Family, Church and Community (in that order).
In fact I have found the last few months to be more productive and my attitude much brighter. Simply by slowing down.
Jesus often stole away for some time alone…to quiet his Spirit. He never seemed in a hurry and yet we know he knew his time was short. Why? He knew what he had to do and he did it. I know what God has called me to do. I know he will equip me to do it. I know he will allow the time I need to do it in. So, I work hard. I take care of my Mind, Body and Soul. I follow Jesus.
Sean Rheaume 