Lately ministry is requiring me to dig deep and find that last drop of energy.  More days than I would like to admit I find myself asking my body, mind, and spirit to push past exhaustion and do one (or maybe 8) more thing(s).  This is not healthy nor is it sustainable. And I know this.  I know better.  I paid attention in all the new start trainings that talked about how easy it is to burn out.  I paid attention to the work I did in therapy about slowing down and making time for sabbath rest.  And I swore I would do better.

I did, for awhile.  But the thing is this is my life’s work. Being a mom, a wife, a sister, daughter, a friend, a new start pastor, a docent, an engaged citizen, and the president of the middle school Foundation is what I am called to be and do, so it is so easy to say yes to too much.

Yet I know I can’t fully be who God made me to be if I’m constantly pushing myself, if I’m never resting, if I don’t surrender all the business and just be,  So each day I’m trying to find space.  I do this by stopping for a moment and enjoy the sunshine, showing up late to a gathering because I took the 15 minutes for a short walk, or staying up a little late talking and giggling with the child as we cozy up in my bed.

As soon as Lent is over things will get less hectic.  Once the Middle School 5K is run and the art museum member party is finished there will be more space.  That is until I let more things fill up my days.  It’s a discipline to say no.  It’s a part of deep spiritual maturity to be able to practice sabbath.  As I’m continuing to learn this is work that takes a life of intention and clarity.  I’m making small steps every day to carve out space for my soul to be still and know God with me.  And in that, and in the work, in the people who bless my life I am finding such abundant joy.

-Eilidh

Sabbath walk view from this fall