Life On MissionPrøve

The practice of rest and solitude might sound counterproductive when we think about living our life on mission for Jesus. However, it is vital. When engaging with the world around us, we need to have something to offer. If we appear to be worn out, broken and disturbed ourselves, I highly doubt we will be carriers of significant influence. Being rested, rejuvenated and emboldened comes from quality time with God.

I learned a few years ago that my wife’s primary way that she wanted to be loved by me was through quality time. It didn’t really matter how many chores I did, bills I paid, errands I ran, hugs I gave or “I love you” spoken. She feels most loved when things slow down and we sit across the table from one another and just gaze at each other and chat. For so long I had been trying to love her, but it just wasn’t connecting. She wanted my time and attention. I wanted to do something for her and she just wanted me to be with her.

God, like my wife, wants quality time from us. In order for this to happen we need to pause the other stuff and position ourselves close to his ear and close to his heart. Only then is our behavior spurred by our closeness and our closeness isn’t dependent on our behavior. This is the relationship that God desires with us; intimate, intentional and inspirational.

The catalyst for loving your city must be founded in a profound and vibrant relationship with God. Any other incentive will leave you burdened and ill-equipped.
In past weeks your missions have been pretty active from sharing your story to writing letters to talking to a neighbor. This week your mission is to rest. I give you full permission to rest. Go ahead, exhale right now. Take a deep sigh of relief. Do something this week that feeds your soul and your relationship with the Lord. Take a nap, play the guitar, go on a hike, journal, lift weights, or get your nails done, whatever you decide to do, be intentional about conversing with God.