Roots Run Deep
When we consider the idea of spiritual formation, our understanding of what those words mean is intertwined with our story. Depending on the faith space we grew up in, the ministry work that we’ve done, the friends that we keep, the books that we’ve read, the places that we work and travel, and on and on the list goes, we begin to discover that our ideas and even our feelings about spiritual formation can be vastly different.
In addition to our daily lives impacting the way we define spiritual formation, it is also true that our walk with Jesus plays a key role in how we define these words and why they matter to us in the first place. Those engaging in this space come from various walks of life, and have had a myriad of experiences inside and outside of the walls of the church.
With all things, it works best if the definitions around what we are discussing are clear. When I think of spiritual formation, I think of the roots of a tree. When you observe a tree standing tall, you may not automatically pause to consider its vast root system running below the surface. Yet, that root system is what sustains it. Without strong, healthy roots, that tree will topple over in time.
We’ve all observed pictures after a storm has ripped through an area, where trees have been uprooted from the ground as if they were nothing more than toothpicks. As the trees lay fallen, we see the roots disconnected from their source. The removal of these trees is inevitable.
I am certain we have all had storms that brought us to our knees. In those storms we had to make a choice - Is what I believe about Jesus true or am I going to walk away?
In the middle of a storm is not the ideal time to figure out how to pray, how to build community, or how to hear God’s voice; though it is true that in the middle of the storm we are drawn more deeply into those practices that we already know how to implement.
The roots we establish through the practice of spiritual formation shape the way we live our everyday lives, and they also get us through the dark nights after we encounter a storm. When everything feels broken - and nothing seems good - we need to know that God is good and that his love remains.
No matter how we feel.
No matter what we see.
And though we may topple over in the storm, unlike trees, if our source is Jesus, it is possible to stand strong again.
If you happen to be in the middle of a storm and you feel weary, I want you to know you are loved, and you belong. If you have found yourself hurt or disappointed by the church in some way, I am deeply sorry and grieve with you. I pray that as we look at the heart of Jesus in the months to come, no matter where you are right now, you will discover new hope, deeper joy, and the fullness of the Father’s love for you.
I’m looking forward to our journey together. Have a great week!
~ Melissa