In this episode, we discuss 'rhythms' - looking specifically at spiritual rhythms (or spiritual disciplines).
Rhythms are the ways we intentionally seek spaces of connection with God, each other, and ourselves. The new year is always a good time to pause, reflect and consider how our habits, patterns, routines, and ways of being are serving us or not.
Sometimes, rather than sensing growth, transformation, joy and peace - the rhythms of our life can feel like a burden, obligation, and duty. Leaving us spinning in discouragement and even self-condemnation. Words like disciplines, exercises, and behaviours can bring forth a sense of legalism: we want to stress that we are not talking about a set of religious obligations. As Richard Foster notes in his book, Celebration of Discipline, “The life that is pleasing to God is not a series of religious duties. We have only one thing to do, namely, to experience a life of relationship and intimacy with God.”
References:
Matthew 11:20-30 - The Message
Richard Foster - Celebration of Discipline
Mark Buchanan - Spiritual Rhythms: Being with Jesus Every Season of Your Soul
James Clear - Atomic Habits
Poem - Patient Trust, Written by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, SJ, excerpted from Hearts on Fire