Church worker 'running on empty'

Dear Ed & Susan,

I'm on a lot of committees at my church, and in a way, I'm glad to do it. But, I'm realizing that I'm very busy, and my spiritual life has gone by the wayside. I don't want to let people down, and yet I need something, too.

Torn

Dear Torn,

Of course, we're reading a lot into your short note, but it sounds like you've gotten caught in what many refer to as, being helpful to others and burning out on the inside. It may be helpful to prioritize your responsibilities. Other people in your congregation can begin to make a contribution. It won't be the same as yours, but "all things work together for those who love God and are called according to his purpose."

It sounds like God may be calling you to pay attention to what you need to do for yourself at this time. Talking with your pastor would probably be helpful. Keep in mind that each of us is personally responsible for our own spiritual growth.

It's not easy. We live in a world that has trained us to be responsible, helpful and caring for others. Ours is not a world that particularly honors the person who says, "I need something for myself at this time."

We really encourage you to take care of these personal callings. If you don't restore yourself, you will soon find that you have nothing to offer others, not to mention resentments that can build from over-giving.

Attending Sunday worship is an important spiritual discipline. But, have you tried taking some time for yourself on a daily basis? Meditation, prayer and scripture reading can help get your mind clear.

Many people have found it helpful to begin with one book from the Bible, such as the Psalms. Reading a Psalm a day, perhaps in conjunction with a devotional guide. The Psalmists experienced the heights and depths of life, as we do. They draw us to God, to our inner selves, to our need for wholeness.

We are not suggesting this discipline in addition to everything on your plate. You may need to clear something else to get time to do this. If you take this time, you may have a better idea of what God wants from you, and you won't be "running on empty."

Yours for a more leisurely approach to spiritual growth,
Susan and Ed Alley

Letters may be sent to the Alleys at the Kairos Center for the Family, 4337 Kessler Blvd. N. Drive, Indianapolis, Ind. 46228. E-mail: eskairos@aol.com.

Last updated on 01/14/2004

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Church worker 'running on empty'

Dear Ed & Susan,

Torn

Dear Torn,

Yours for a more leisurely approach to spiritual growth, Susan and Ed Alley

Yours for a more leisurely approach to spiritual growth,
Susan and Ed Alley