Slow down – November 15, 2024
Today’s Readings:
AM Psalm 88; PM Psalm 91, 92; Joel 2:28-3:8; James 1:16-27; Luke 16:1-9
One night recently, I came home tired. And grouchy. And bossy. I barked and fussed. My kids were not impressed, to say the least. Attitude with eye rolls was dished out from one child, with indignance doled out from the other. I leaned over and asked Sam, “Is it just me, or are the kids being difficult?” With a level tone, he said, “You are being pretty hardcore right now.” I sat silent for a moment and then responded, “Oh. Okay.” Then Sam and I talked about the heavy things upon my mind and heart. I returned to a milder version of the intense person that I can be.
It feels like this scripture from the beginning of the Letter of James is directed just at that version of me the other night. As if James had been watching me and delivered the feedback I needed – but it was not what I really wanted to hear. Have you ever experienced this? I’ll tell you what specifically speaks to me: “You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; for your anger does not produce God’s righteousness.” (1:19-20)
This is a teaching I know, and yet I need reminders of this. The primary focus is listening. James’ teaching to the Christian community calls them to be always ready to hear and comprehend one another. And then, be slow to utter words or erupt in anger. The “slowing down” piece is hard, and it is important. Here’s why: a drive for immediacy circumvents what can be gained in love and learned in human interaction.
The scripture from James speaks to one more piece in this tension: my fiery, impulsive insistence on being right in the moment does not create an endorsement from God that I am indeed correct. My words might be accurate, but my delivery falls short, is poorly timed, and lands terribly. Connection is diminished. God is not glorified in that space.
Friends, if you and I are to live into our faith as followers of Jesus, each breath and step can be filled with intention. We can see each movement as a gift, so that God’s love and truth shines through us. I invite you to join me in being ready to listen, and let’s slow down together in the ways we respond and get angry. With the love of Christ and the help of the Holy Spirit, God will equip us in this challenge of Christian life today.
In God’s love,
Katherine+
Questions for Self-Reflection and Daily Challenge:
Where are your words and actions falling short today? Who is it who can speak truth to you - with God's love at the center - so that you adjust the way you see yourself? For whom do you do this? Sit in prayer for those spaces of "course correction" and listen for where God is calling you to grow. Share insights with someone you trust.