Monday, June 22, 2009

Unforced Rhythms of Grace

I was thinking about how my life feels more complicated than it probably is, and as I was lifting it up (again, for what must be the millionth time) to the Lord the phrase "unforced rhythms of grace" came to mind.

That's the title of my good friend Misty's blog, and if I was able to post to it, I would have written a post to her blog today about how great that phrase is. This is the introduction to her blog, and I love how it's written:

Have you ever met someone for whom kindness and faith seem natural? I know it may not actually be effortless for them, in fact I know it isn’t. But there is a difference between moving forward and pushing forward. I want to be the kind of woman who lives in unforced rhythms of grace. I am not there yet. Perhaps I never will be. My intent is to invite you along for that journey. Be forewarned that it will be a road with lots of bends and perhaps a little bit of traveling in reverse.

That phrase, "unforced rhythms of grace", is from the Message paraphrase of Jesus' words in Matthew 11:28:

Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.

Why do I walk through life overly burdened, feeling squeezed on all sides, when I know my Redeemer lives? I know all this stuff already. Why does it not translate from my head to my heart? I, too, want to be a woman who moves forward instead of pushes forward. I want to live in the unforced rhythms of grace.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

God knows your desires, and will by His Grace see you through. "About the time we are ready to give up, along comes the Master, who leans over and whispers, 'Don't quit. Keep going,' as He provides His finishing touch of grace, joy, and love at just the right moment. His touch assures that we will be finishing well."
Love, Mummy