Juggling (A Holy Purpose)

Sometimes it’s incredibly difficult to juggle. Most of life is about juggling, but it can become overwhelming. Lately I’ve been doing a lot of it, trying to get order in my life but also giving myself the freedom to be creative. You see, balance is everything! I’m a church choral director, a Christian music publisher, a songwriter and a father, husband, son, grandfather and great grandfather! My life is full.

So many times I have juggled my way through my music career and found myself too busy for God. I’m in the Christian music business and deal with the Word everyday from gifted, Christ-centered songwriters. Isn’t that enough, I rationalized? After all, to feed the Body of Christ is a high calling, worthy of a little leeway, right? God?

I have found in my calling, juggling always leaves out the feasting on His Word. It's inevitable! Many years ago I visited an internationally known monastery in Kentucky, the Abbey of Gethsemani. It's primarily known for being the home of the great Christian writer, Thomas Merton. I spent a weekend at the abbey and it changed my life!

The monks pray/chant the Psalms seven times each day (starting at 3:15 a.m) and work at their appointed jobs around the abbey. Talk about juggling! I was so amazed at their way of life, spirit, joy, and dedication to Christ that I wanted to juggle my way through each day as they did while living in the “world.” After two years of study, prayer and commitment, I became a Lay Cistercian (Trappist). This Order of monks began in 1098, so there is a bit of longevity!

Applying what I have learned over the past 15 years has meant that I now juggle with a purpose. That purpose is to live as holy as I possibly can. With daily readings that follow the monks, my days are full, but also fulfilling. Following this plan of life is not easy. I fail a lot! But juggling now has a holy purpose.

My balancing act has now become a deep source of Holy Spirit-driven living. Anytime one lives in the real world, it takes strength, purpose, dedication and determination. Juggling and balancing are not for the faint of heart; but it’s a way of life and gives joy to the journey.

So, as you walk or run your juggling journey, take time to listen to that still, small voice. He will always speak peace in your life and be your never-failing guide.