The Two-Beat Rhythm

[Pseud]

I read Soul Journey everyday, and I felt that today's was one that was particularly worth sharing.[/color]

Life can get complicated. When my wife and I discovered that we wouldn’t be able to have children, we were thrust into the ethical whirlpool of in-vitro fertilization. If we had been nonbelievers, we may have used IVF as a tool without question, but as Jesus-followers we were compelled to ask, “What does God think about reproductive technologies like this?” Talk about a complex issue!

Recently I canceled an all-expenses-paid trip to Africa where I had planned to visit a Christian ministry. There were reports of possible terrorist attacks in the area where we would be staying. Did I make a reasonable decision based on reliable information, or did I lack faith that God would protect us?

The balance between faith and responsible decision-making can get complicated. But Mark 3:13-15 reminds me that following Jesus is ultimately quite simple. On the mountain, Jesus called His disciples to do just two things—to be with Him, and to be sent out from Him. This rhythm of relating to God and responding to the world marked Jesus’ own ministry and His training of the disciples. Consider:

• Luke 4:1-15 — Jesus praying and fasting in the desert (relating to the Father), then beginning to preach on His return (responding to the world).

• Luke 5:15-16 — Jesus withdrawing to lonely places to pray (relating), before heading out to preach, heal, and befriend (responding).

• Luke 6:12-16 — Jesus praying all night (relating), before choosing the 12 disciples (responding).

• Luke 9:1-10 — Jesus sending the Twelve on a special assignment. They had spent time with Him, were sent on a mission, then returned to Jesus to be with Him again—learning new lessons in ministry. This same rhythm is repeated later with a group of 72 disciples (Luke 10:1-17).

Being with, being sent, relating to God before responding to the world. How different would my life look if I consistently danced to this rhythm in my workplace, church, and relationships?
—Sheridan Voysey

bottom line: Pray before you respond—every time.

 

[WeakButHopeful]

I was just about to start a separate thread when I read yours. I hope you agree this is somewhat related, if not, I apologize deeply!

But as in your two dilemmas, I find myself often at work being torn between good advice I heard once (something like "high expectations set you up for deep resentments") which would tend to make me more understanding and patient, and the real need to hold high expectations for myself and those who work in my team (we are all professionals) so that we can give good value to our employer. As a result I find myself never really feeling at ease and sometimes being moody and cynical (at least). Granted, my dilemma is not as serious as your two examples, but I will admit that I am not in the habit of frequent prayer. It seems to me that your post has highlighted my problem. I will attempt to follow this "two beat rhythm" during the week and see if my work relationships and my own attitudes improve. I know that I'm not the one who's supposed to be living, but Christ living through me, but (as my CF name suggests) I am Weak and have always had problems putting into practice what my brain knows.

Thank you for your posting!

 

[Pseud]

I know exactly what you mean!

I can find myself in some very foul moods at times, and if I'm honest, sometimes I really don't feel like a Christian. I know that I have a bad attitude, and I sure could do with turning to God more often throughout daily life!

Now the problem for me is getting into the habit of doing it!

Good luck with your efforts!

p.s. I didn't write the original post, copied and pasted from a website i read, just incase there was any confusion

 

[WeakButHopeful]

Woops...you're right, I was confused, though you clearly said it was a quote. Thanks for the kind wishes and good luck with your efforts, also!

 

[Pseud]

Thank you