A Better Time - Audio
“If you can’t take time to do nothing, you’re a slave to doing. Doing nothing is a radical, revolutionary act. It frees you from the universal slavery of our age: slavery to the clock. The clock measures doing but not being.” Peter Kreft
Scripture
“Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10
“Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’” Mark 6:31
Definition
Slowing is one way to overcome inner hurriedness and addiction to busyness. Through slowing, the sacrament of the present moment is tasted to the full.
Reflection Questions to consider this week:
How do you feel about being stuck behind cars that go slowly? How do you react to a slow salesclerk? What is your reaction to a yellow traffic light?
When do you rely on adrenaline or caffeine to get through a tough part of the day?
What is it like for you to eat slowly rather than snaring down your food?
How many times do you say, “I’m busy” in a week? How many times do you say, “I’m in a hurry.”?
How have deadlines, timelines and bottom lines affected the pace of your life? What sort of power have you given to these imaginary lines? What options do you have?
Spiritual Exercises to consider this week: (Try 1 or 2 during the week)
People who are rushed often feel anxious about their lives. So, when you wake up, before your head leaves the pillow, offer God three central concerns of the day. Ask him to care for these things as you go about your daily tasks. When your worries creep in, return to the moment when you handed God your concerns.
Intentionally drive in the slow lane. Intentionally choose the longest line at the grocery store. Intentionally sit longer over your meal. Intentionally chew your food. Intentionally distinguish the variety of tastes you enjoy as you eat. Intentionally take a longer shower. Relish the time. Recognize God is present. What rises to the surface of your mind? What does this reveal about yourself?
Insert margins of rest and relaxation into your day. Remembering that it is better to be unavailable than inattentive, build some buffer times into your life – shorter appointments, no back-to-back appointments without a break, take some deep breaths before you pick up the phone.
Ask God to make you present in the moment. When people ask, “How are you?” refrain from a litany about how busy you are. Counter gut reactions that arise from feeling threatened or insecure by breathing slowly and deeply. Breathe in Christ’s presence. Breathe out your anxiety and fear. Hear Jesus words to you, “Believe don’t fear.” Breathe deeply before you speak and respond.