The spiritual disciplines are wisdom, not righteousness. (p.27). I keep coming back to these words in the chapter. They aren't new words, I've heard them before. Yet right now, in this season of my life, they seem new again.
As I reflect, I think of the ways in which I use the disciplines to measure myself spiritually. If I'm honest I can use them to barter with God, like they're the cosmic "rubbing of the lamp" so that the Genie will pop out and grant me my three wishes.
At the same time, there's a sense of rest and relief that I feel as I read these words. My mind goes to Matthew 11:
"Come to me, all who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I'm gentle and humble
in heart, and you will find rest for your soul. For my yoke is easy and
my burden is light." (28-30)
Lately the disciplines have seemed more of a burden than a grace. Completing them has been about righteousness, not wisdom. This chapter has been a good reminder to me that change happens not in how much I do, but rather, in what God is doing in me. I look forward to our conversations and to seeing God's hand at work in us.
No comments:
Post a Comment