Empty. Apathetic. Tired. Worn. Exhausted. Overwhelmed. Maybe you’re resonating with some, or all of these words! I’ve heard from many who feel like they’ve reached the bottom and have nothing left to give. I am convinced that each of us has felt this way at one time or another, especially during this pandemic and racial inequality protests. We are struggling with our deepest desire to “be the disciples for the transformation of the world” - and it wears!
I freely admit that I have fallen short of answering the call of discipleship with joy or enthusiasm. I have been lukewarm as described in Scripture from Revelation 3:15-16, “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.” I really don’t want to be spit out of God’s mouth!
The reality is that in order to “be the disciples for the transformation of the world,” we/I need to turn to Matthew 11:28-30, “Are you having a real struggle? Come to Me! Are you carrying a big load on your back? Come to Me – I’ll give you a rest! Pick up My yoke and put it on; take lessons from Me! My heart is gentle, not arrogant. You’ll find the rest you deeply need. My yoke is easy to wear, My load is easy to bear.’ (New Testament for Everyone). In reading this, I envision God with open arms - offering me a place to rest with my head on God’s shoulders. I can close my eyes and rest assured that “God’s got this!”
God invites us to be renewed in strength, heart, and spirit through:
- Observing Sabbath time, which means a purposeful and meaningful connection to God in worship, gratitude, and praise.
- Spending time daily rejuvenating yourself in prayer, reading Scripture, and/or listening to praise music.
- Discover what moves your spirit and heart and develop a way to enhance those experiences, i.e. I am fired up for those experiencing poverty, so I engage in work that keeps that fire burning.
- Be gentle with yourself and others, knowing that we are doing the best we can given our current situation.
May the God of Grace and Glory make it so. Amen.
Author
Barbara Certa-Werner
Clergy Assistant to Bishop Hee-Soo Jung