daily life as life goes on . . .

Postmedia is losing their buildings.  In shedding their buildings they get rid of expenses that could be better allocated.  All the reporters will work remotely.

For centuries the church has shed buildings.  Some of the magnificent museums in the world were once church buildings.  As communities declined in population, facilities had their dedications lifted and another owner took on the maintenance.

But this feels a bit different.  The struggle seems to be with the definition of community.  At one time a social cohesion was dependant on relaying messages, giving announcements and sharing each other’s physical presence together.  Our day and age has moved to virtual sharing, information relayed by digital means and trusting to be able to Zoom in to another’s presence.

Justification for a building used to be for the single-focus purpose of providing a community landing spot.  Decor and utility were combined in an effort to direct both thought and person to God. 

Now, . . . do we need buildings?

Well, if sabbath is the culmination of your work week, then the rest is really found in the trying out of the work.

Most of us figure we are only talking about what we get paid for when we talk about work.  Let me stretch your thinking.  What if you thought about working during the week to set yourself up for a day that would be all about having fun living what God calls us to live – kingdom life? 

Maybe your work is about anger control that God says is not a good thing.  So, with God’s conviction and strength, you learn to recognize your anger more fully.  A bit of good advice doesn’t hurt.  Nor does learning what triggers you. 

So during the week you are working on these Kingdom principles.  Sabbath comes and you try out what you have learned.  You watch intentionally for a situation that triggers your anger – and you call out to God (yell would be a better word) to help you pull all that work together and come out contented that you have lived a godly life. 

And now you can rest.  For some of you, your sabbath may come on the fifth day.  And God confirms to you that conquering your fears, or closely loving others, or whatever, is up to you when you leave it up to God.  Rest is found in that moment. The work has led to rest.

Just some initial thoughts as I “work” on learning to “rest”.

I’m one who loves the future – the hope, the creativity, the renewal.

I’m also a bit of a historian – the past carries valuable lessons, searched out solutions and just plain fun illustrations.

And the now?  Well here I am – the present is . . . and the choices we make are a weaving of the past and future.  And joy and rest are found in the threads we weave that intersect with right now.

So, think ahead, think back and plunge into the canvas you are weaving – use a palette of many colours and wear the coat with pleasure and enjoyment.

Oh, by the way – God has got you.  If you start from there and look for where God is working the fireworks will not explode in your face but will light up you sky.

To my wife and friends – yes, I do like a bit of poetry every once in a while.

My mother passed away the morning of January 11, 2023.  She was 90 years old, a pioneer of hospitality, “million watt smile (Cal Ross)”, artistic, generous, loving and sometimes a bit OCD.   I loved her as a person of opinion and integrity.  Thank you for you care and concern over the decades.  I will miss my mom!!!