Leaders ask: We are managing the fast current of change, can we sustain this pace in the unknown?
The answer: no. The solution: rest.
8 things Healthy Leaders Do in this Summer of Crises:
- Rest
- Relationships
- Rehydrate
- Recreate
- Reconnect
- Replenish
- Reconcile
- Renew
In these summer days of weird isolation, even weirder news, it sometimes feels like we are living in a parallel universe. Almost no part our lives has been untouched by pandemic, sickness, isolation, anxiety, grief, awareness of inequity and injustice, or fear and loss of control. Oh Lord, how much more can we take?
Rest is Replenishment
There will be plenty of work to do, no doubt. However, we need to pace ourselves. Pace is as important as passion. If we are overworked, anxious, and fearful, we will crash. When we crash it hurts everyone including ourselves, our families, our neighbors, and our church. Instead, let us look to the long view, the God who works in multiple generations, across the ages, through movements and counts in millenia. Let’s rest in order to do the good work.
Rest Is By Design
The day of rest is not a suggestion for the creation. Rest is built into the order of life itself. We forget that. Embrace Sabbath. There is a rhythm of creation that matches the heartbeat of the creator. Night and then day. Rest and then work. Embrace the designed cadence of rest and work. One reason we rest is to remember who God is and whose we are. When we work, we often forget.
Rest is Courage
Where will the energy, the creativity, and the bravery come from that is needed to move forward into this new world? Paradoxically, It comes in rest. By retreating, withdrawing for rest and contemplation, you are refueling for mission. Rest is acknowledging limits, capacities, and edges. Rest is surrender, falling into grace and refreshment. Rest is letting God be God. Rest is stewardship of your life.
Rest is Gift
“Rest in my presence when you need refreshment” author Sarah Young imagines God saying to us. “Resting is not necessarily idleness, as people often perceive it. When you relax in My company, you are demonstrating trust in Me. Trust is a rich word, laden with meaning and direction in your life.”
For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: In returning [to Me] and resting [in Me] you shall be saved; in quietness and in [trusting] confidence shall be your strength.
-Isaiah 30:15 Amp
Sarah Young admonishes us to hear God: “In returning to Me and resting in Me you shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be your strength."
So, rest, good and faithful servant. Rest is first for good ministry, it is care of the soul.
Kristin Wiersma | Consultant Team Lead | email
Young, S. (2020). Jesus is Calling app. https://www.jesuscalling.com/app/