A Saturday of Reflection

Sitting here in my often-occupied chair at a great coffeeshop [ link ], I’ve been able to pause and take a deep breath and just relax the mind for a few moments. It’s been quite a marathon these past days so it’s good to enjoy some moments free of deadlines and pressing projects (don’t worry - I’ll have plenty of time for that later today).

The power of words. The words we say to ourselves contain a great amount of power over how we see our world, ourselves and our God. One word I strive to avoid using with myself and others is the word “busy”. It’s an easy (and accepted) trap we all fall into. When encountering opportunities to be an active part in each others lives, our initial answer to the question we often ask each other - “How are things?” - serves to either welcome or dismiss what may or may not come next.

In a world that’s increasingly urban - it’s amazing how many lonely people there are. How much loneliness is a self-inflicted wound we perpetuate upon ourselves because we fall into the “busy” trap of life?

Instead of busy, I love the word “active”. How am I doing? Answer: “I’m active.” Another great answer to the question that I’ve heard and love is…. “Better than I deserve.”

Notice the positive? Busy = “negative” Blessed = “positive” Active = “positive - with a dash of adventure”

I was reading in 2 Samuel today of the steady rise in Israel of King David once King Saul had died. We read all the great accounts of victories, tragedies and all the drama in between. I was reminded just how young King David was when he eventually claimed the throne of the entire nation of Israel. He was only 30 years old! David had a very full life up to that point…and often our depictions of him as king during these times are as a man in his 40’s or 50’s. Older. Mature. A man’s man. Maybe I’m the only one - but I was struck by the mention of his age when he finally claimed the throne.

An observation? Age and notions of maturity have changed so much in these past decades. Is it a good thing that many jokingly call the “30’s” the “new 20’s”. What does that imply? Perpetual and excused immaturity?

God is faithful.

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