The Weekly Epistle 11/16/22

Hi Church,
 
Whatever we focus our hearts on first thing in the morning will shape our entire day. As I read
those words from Tony Reinke, I stopped to consider how that was true in my life. While it is
true that I am a morning person, I still can be easily distracted by many things as I start my day.
I am trying to change that.
 
A survey recently of 8,000 people found that 54% checked their smartphones within minutes of
waking up. More than 70% admitted that they checked email and social media before their
spiritual disciplines.
 
We all have different routines. There is no right way to practice the disciplines of the faith. I am
not making a case for morning devotions. What seems to work best for me is that time set
aside in the morning for reflection, Scripture meditation, prayer and quietness before the Lord.
That doesn’t work for everyone.
 
But I have found that if I start my day on social media, watching the news, answering my emails,
or a number of other activities, it affects my day and not always positively. So, for me, I was
challenged recently to change my routine. Even if it means praying on my way to the office
(with my eyes open) or reading a verse and meditating on it, or simply rehearsing a verse I have
hidden in my heart, it produced far greater results in my thinking for that day than when I don’t
start my day that way.
 
Did my day always go better? Did that mean there was no conflict? Was it a problem-free kind
of day? No! But my chance of responding to the challenges of that day in a healthy way was
greater than if I started my day focusing on other things. My attitude was in a better place to
face the day, though “attitude adjustments” still were necessary throughout the day.
 
I don’t know what this all means for you. Each of you have to work this out. I don’t want to give
you the impression that my first thought as I wake up each day is, “I can’t wait to meet with the
Lord this morning.” I wish! That is why it is critical that there are certain things in place to guard
my time for spiritual disciplines and work at bringing a mind that is as clear and focused as
possible to the Lord.
 
As we will soon enter a new year, perhaps this is the time to evaluate your routines. Don’t
forget about the workshop on December 2 from 7:00-8:30. This time with Ryan Barton will help
us develop a renewed vision for the new year. The workshop, “Seeing what matters: gaining
clarity for the year ahead,” will provide some practical guidance that will help us discern a vision
for the future and give us some practical tools for the journey. Check out the insert in this
week’s bulletin about Ryan Barton and please sign up at the ministry counter if you plan on
attending this workshop.
 
The Adult Discipleship team wants to build on this workshop for the coming year. As a follow-up
to the workshop, you will hear more from this ministry as to how you can best carry out your
intentions.
 
Hope to see you Sunday, if not sooner! Blessings, Pastor Brian