O, begin!

I'm reminded once again of one of my favorite John Wesley quotes as I use the Devotional Life in the Wesleyan Tradition by Steve Harper for a GaP-wide study.  [GaP= Georgia Parish] This quote can be found in other texts too.  In fact, because of "Our Covenant Oath" series this month in the GaP, I've been going back through James Harnish's The Disciple's Path to glean information for the sermon series.  Both books contain the quote, with the latter containing it in full.

"O, begin! Fix some part of every day for private exercises.  You may acquire the taste which you have not: What is tedious at first, will afterwards be pleasant.  Whether you like it or no, read and pray daily.  It is for your life; there is no other way; else you will be a trifler all your days."  ~ John Wesley

In this moment I am sitting in my hammock.  I hear the birds chirping.  I can hear the water feature in the background on the patio. There is a slight breeze.  I am attempting to center my heart, soul, and mind while enjoying some of God's creation.

There are many things on my to-do list. Today is my Sabbath rest day, yet....

Because my mind is swirling with things, I know that being still is important.  "Be still and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)

Because of all the things going on in life, I also have been reminded (twice) this week of the importance to put on the armor of God daily.  I'm reminded that the situations we face aren't against flesh and blood, but against the powers and principalities.  These are good reminders.  I remind myself that it's all about God, that it all belongs to God.

In a study on Wednesday, the word "unleash" came forth from the study.  Yes!  An unleashing of the Holy Spirit to work and move in and through the people, the communities, to bring healing, hope, encouragement, restoration, etc.  Ah, what would it take for the power of God to be unleashed?!?!  What would it take for the Holy Spirit to be unleashed?!?!  O, begin!!!  That is my prayer.

May I continue the daily spiritual disciplines that I need to in order to live, love, and lead as a follower of the Way.

Resting in my hammock, reflecting on God's creation, and resting in the Word "Be still and know that I am God" is helping.

The spiritual disciplines of silence, solitude, prayer, worship, study, writing, etc. ARE for my life.  They sustain me.  Thank you John Wesley for the reminder.  Thank you God for the time with you.  Thank you community for the small group time Wednesday and Thursday night.

As I left the study time Wednesday evening, I got to see the new cross lit up at night for the first time.  It was stunning.

The cross reminds me of God's love for me and for all. And I think of the song "At the cross" and these lyrics: 'At the cross, at the cross, where I first saw the light...'  but I really think of them in Spanish: 'En la cruz, en la cruz, donde primero vi la luz'... and I hear Steve Green singing it.

As you read the John Wesley quote at the top of this post, what speaks to you?  What action will you take?

Blessings on your journey,

Debra

P.S. I took some time to "be still" prior to a monthly board call for FUMSDRL (Fellowship of United Methodist Spiritual Directors and Retreat Leaders). My spirit is always more calm and at peace after these board meetings. This board is a great example of how meetings can be spirit filled, led, and transformational--individually and collectively.

One last picture-- a few of the things I noticed in my yard as I was on the call. All but one picture was taken after I got off the call.