An Essential Pause

Living in the shadow of a deadly pandemic has it’s challenges — for sure. For far too many, lives are forever changed. Great losses. My heart aches for those suffering unbearable pain and loss.

In my corner of the world, social gatherings and stay at home orders are the biggest change I’ve faced. Yes, grocery store shelves continue to be ravaged and every form of media sounds the alarm — “warning!” “More shortages to come!” The lure to hunker down and self preserve is ever present.

Something about the urge to hold hands with fear and hide — grieves my heart.

It’s taken a lifetime to unlearn the art of being afraid. Fear has been an unwanted companion in my life for as long as I can remember. I’m forever grateful for the grace of God. His refusal to let me stay knee deep in the mire of timidity has saved my life.

His strong and gentle hands have refused to relent, as they unravel the tangled mess of my fearful soul.

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“I leave the gift of peace with you—my peace. Not the kind of fragile peace given by the world, but my perfect peace. Don’t yield to fear or be troubled in your hearts—instead, be courageous! John 14:27

I love God’s extravagant rate of exchange! Peace in place of anxiety. Love outweighing fear. Courage in exchange for timidity.

One of the things I miss most in our environment of “stay at home” is people — up close and personal. There is something beautiful about showing up and being seen. Personal growth thrives best in relational soil. In healthy communities we have the opportunity to learn authentic love — other centered love. I derive much joy and energy from being with people. Especially — “my people.” Those who are beautifully broken. Who wear their scars with dignity and grace. In a world full of suffering it is not difficult to “run” into people who are in need of a good dose of love and respect.

Perhaps, during this time of stay at home orders we are being called to something new? I believe that in the midst of a global pandemic God is calling us to an essential pause. To breath deeply. Move a little slower. An essential undoing of our busy and a renewing of what it means to be still — regardless of the environment around us. Fully present. I’ve used the vehicle of “busyness” — letting it take on many different life forms; in my quest to, “finish well.” I’m confident of God’s call on my life and I run passionately after it. Loving with arms wide open! Maybe, just Maybe, it’s time for an essential refreshing, An essential reset. An essential reclaiming. An essential unearthing.

Could it be that I’ve hidden myself behind all “my busy” to not fully be seen? Have I lost the art of being vulnerableand and fully present? Am I living in the 20,000 moments I’m gifted with each day? The best intentions can unwittingly become a hiding place. God help me unpack the non-essential in my life.

 “Are you weary, carrying a heavy burden? Then come to me. I will refresh your life, for I am your oasis. Simply join your life with mine. Learn my ways and you’ll discover that I’m gentle, humble, easy to please. You will find refreshment and rest in me. For all that I require of you will be pleasant and easy to bear.” ^~ Mathew 11:28-30 TPT

He is gentle, and humble, and easy to please. I’m going to learn of Him during this time of essential refreshing. He is my Oasis. Breathe.