As I look into the Gospel Of John, there is a simplicity that characterizes the life of Jesus. When asked about his life and its secrets, He gives simple responses to all of us simple people. I need it that way...simple me, simple mind, simple path. In the urgency of his life and its demands, He stayed on trac, got the essentials done, did the best things (in the face of much conflict from his enemies and friends) and could confidently say in the end..."It is finished." His life's purpose, what He was here for, got done...and His Father said of Him, "this is my Son in whom I am well pleased." His relationship and vital connection with His Father was what made Him effective and efficient. Jesus said Himself, "...apart from my Father, I can do nothing."
Our relationship to our Heavenly Father is the key to everything. What Jesus had with His Father is possible for us too. He said, "...the things that I do, you shall do...because I go to my Father."
So...back to simplicity in practical living...how does this apply? I leave you with these two quotes:
Much of our acceptance of the multitudes of obligations is due to our inability to say No! We calculated that that task had to be done, and we saw no one ready to undertake it.... But when we say Yes or No to calls, on the basis of inner guidance and whispered promptings of encouragement from the Center of our life, or on the basis of a lack of any inward "rising" of that Life to encourage us in the call, we have no reason to give, except one - the will of God as we discern it.
And...
In religious circles we find today a fierce and almost violent planning and programming. A sense that without ceaseless activity nothing will ever be accomplished. How seldom it occurs to us that God has to undo and to do all over again so much of what we, in our willfulness, have pushed through in God's name. How little there is in us of the silent and radiant strength in which the secret works of God really take place! How ready we are to speak, how loath to listen, how quick to do rather than "be", to act instead of wait, to sense the further dimension of what it is that we confront.
(Copied from Plain Living)
Intimacy with our Father, hearing him in all things, wisdom and direction in all issues...that's what Jesus had...and what we so desperately need to avert the tyranny of the urgent and know the peace and confidence He demonstrated.
I need this...and thought it might encourage you too.
Blessings,
Mitch
