It’s All in What You’re Used To

As I was brooming snow this morning I reflected again on how much my personal “norm” for cold weather has changed. I grew up in South Bend, Indiana, (think lake effect snow and Notre Dame) and I lived for eight years in Chicago. I know about snow and cold weather. I also know that since I moved to Lynchburg eleven years ago I have become quite accustomed to the mild winters and the total shut- down that occurs when Southerners see a few flakes.  My goddaughters in the Chicago area have fewer snow days that we do in Lynchburg. I no longer own a heavy coat, never needed a snow blower and have a snow shovel more for nostalgia’s sake than for regular use. The old broom worked very well this morning. It all depends on what you are used to.

In some ways having set patterns and disciplines are very helpful. Parenting books are full of advice on bedtime routines that children need to feel safe and thrive. Every January news and talk shows tout the importance of an exercise routine. If you have a pattern and a habit, you are more likely to stick with it and have more long-term success.

I also know that I am very blessed to live in such a way where I take many of the simple routines of life for granted. I have plumbing and hot water, I do not grow my own food, and except for fasting before the staff and faculty wellness testing this week, I do not go hungry.  I drive to work most days and enjoy the freedom to make most of my own choices.

On the other hand, helpful routines are often one small step away from a rut. Many of the mainline Protestant churches spent decades expecting members to show up routinely every Sunday morning and failed to inspire or nourish folks spiritually. They got in a rut because they forgot to change with the generations and respond to culture in new ways. I often find myself buying the same items at the grocery store every Tuesday evening until the family voices unhappiness about eating the same things.

So I share with you today the challenge to make sure you are always a bit uncomfortable in your faith journey. Make sure that you are always growing and stretching. Make sure you are always reflecting on the things you take for granted. Make sure your patterns do not become ruts.  What are you used to?

Thank you, God, for all the comforts and joys that I am used to.
Grant this day, that I may be challenged by myself and by my faith.
Grant me holy discomfort so that I will want better for myself and better for others.
Help me to practice disciplined self-care and honor that I am created in Your image,
but challenge me to thoughtful reflection and a hope for deeper, more celebratory living.
Grant me anger at injustice and exploitation, particularly oppression that has become the status quo.
Help me to confront complacency whenever it ignores the suffering of others and grant my heart a restless longing for Your Kingdom.
Amen.

Blessings, Stephanie