As I mentioned earlier, one of my Lenten disciplines has to do with reading. I am currently reading a book by Rob Bell called "Velvet Elvis." It is a wonderful book about Christianity and how we live out our faith in the world.
The section I just finished had to do with the start of his church, how it grew rapidly, and the stress it put upon Rob. At one point her realized that he was trying to lead the church (over 10000 members) the same way he would try to lead a small congregation, and it was burning him out.
I think we can all relate in that we over-extend ourselves, put unrealistic expectations upon ourselves, and burn out. We want to please people, to be the best, to make sure no one is unhappy or upset with us, and the list goes on and on.
But when we do this, we tear ourselves down. We are not going to please everyone. We are not going to be perfect. We cannot read people's minds and anticipate every move. We are human.
And when we come to this realization, it is freeing. It is freeing because we can release ourselves to do what we do best - what we are God-gifted with. Sure, there are times we need to do things we may not enjoy, but when we free ourselves from unrealistic expectations, we see the world in a new light, and things are much more joyful.
So today, I invite you to give up some of the unrealistic expectations that have been placed upon you. Remember - you are human, you are not perfect, and you are the one that God loves and continues to come to, over and over again in your life.
No comments:
Post a Comment