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Time out with God

9.5.2023
|
Daily Grace

It’s been a rough week. So, this morning, I put myself in time out.

I sat at a small table with a candle and cross. I lit that focusing flame and opened my Bible. My focus Scripture was: “For I decided that while I was with you, I would forget everything except Jesus Christ, the one who was crucified.” 1 Corinthians 2:2, New Living Translation

I resolved to try for 20 minutes to forget everything except Christ crucified. Setting my timer, I took a deep breath and entered this self-imposed exile. “Jesus, let me forget everything but you.”

I made it through three deep breaths before I remembered five things that I needed to add to my to-do list. This morning’s attempt was only slightly successful. However, I’m convinced that spiritual leadership takes practice–like being an accomplished musician or superior athlete.

Putting myself in time out is one way I can open space for the Spirit to speak into my cluttered life. My silent desperation is one place Jesus works best, even if it is painful.

This message is excerpted from “Taking an adult time out” by Collette Broady Grund from the September 12, 2016, blog of the Women of the ELCA.


There’s still time to register to attend the Just Love Gathering in Phoenix, Arizona, September 21-24, 2023. Will we see you there?
Copyright © 2023 Women of the ELCA. Inquiries for permission to reproduce should be directed to [email protected].

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