Some years ago, a very smart person informed me that I was really not essential to the running of God's universe. It was really doing quite fine without me and it would continue on without even a mis-step if I were not around.
So, I was encouraged to take time outs . . . bench yourself from the game . . . take a break (a long one), do retreats that have no ministry or leadership work involved. Even try this thing called rest and Sabbath.
Of course I didn't believe them. I didn't want to believe them.
They obviously didn't know who I was. I was essential. My input was crucial. My work was vital. I was/am a player. I'm somebody important. I am needed.
But I'm not essential to the running of God's universe, or His kingdom, or His church. Heck, for that matter, I'm not even essential for the running of my ministry area. If a heart attack or a drunk driver takes me out of the game tomorrow, it goes on without me. Maybe sadder for a few days, but that's about it.
I'm not essential . . . and neither are you. (Okay, if you are LeBron, you're essential . . .)
However, the higher we move "up" in leadership responsibility -- the more indispensable we believe we are. Irreplaceable. Necessary. We are Atlas holding up the world (organization, team, ministry, department, etc.) on our shoulders. We have to finish the project, meet the deadline, complete the task, fill the order, make the decision . . .
Doesn't that just get old after awhile?
What if you JUST STOPPED RIGHT NOW?
Yes, go ahead and stop right now. Stop before you are finished. Set it (whatever it may be) aside. Allow it to remain incomplete and unfinished. Life will go on. Set it aside and come back later.
Take a time out. Listen to music. Read a "not" necessary book. Go on a walk. Hang out with a friend (and have fun). Go get a cup of coffee at your favorite place, read a fun magazine and watch people. And, even better -- take a nap. A long one at that.
Your willingness to stop what you are doing is a sign of faith and trust, a symbol of your dependence and surrender. It is you acknowledging - I have limits and I will honor them.
God rested on the 7th Day. He didn't rest because He was tired and worn out from six hectic days. No. God rested because that was part of the created order. God created - REST. And when we rest, when we take a time out, when we stop acting like we are indispensable - we honor God's mandate for rest and we acknowledge our dependency on God.
Go ahead. You can do it. (Apparently, if you are tired enough, any resting place will do!)
Brian Rice
Leadership ConneXtions International
