Sabbath reflections, take 2

Sunday worship was wonderful - and difficult. We celebrated our high school graduates, and commissioned a mission team to Mississippi. That was a joy.

But then one of our promising young people passed out during the service and needed to be rushed to the E.R. It looks like he will be OK, but this morning he gave us quite a scare, and we keep him in our prayers.

I've been around the pastorate long enough to know the extremes of life's rhythms. When we celebrate a joy, it is often matched by a heart-breaking need. And when we announce a funeral in the parish, it is often paired by the birth of a new child across town.

The key to pastoral sanity is staying rooted -- like a tree drawing strength on the river bank. And when the storm blows through, you're able to remain grounded, connected, and fruitful.

I think that's one reason why God gives us the Sabbath. It's the day to lean back into holy arms, and to deepen our dependence on God.

After returning from today's hospital calls, checking on those who are recuperating, and working through a small family crisis, I was ready for a nap. It felt good, and the afternoon seemed to be held in mercy.

Rooted. Not anxious. Connected and grounded. I could get used to this.

For the Sabbath, we have Psalm 92: "It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night, to the music of the lute and the harp, to the melody of the lyre. For you, O Lord, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy." (Psalm 92:1-4)