Sister Joan Chittister is one of my favorite spiritual mentors. She has written numerous books, devotions and produces the Monastic Way magazine. To investigate her writings, see www.benetvision.org. I highly recommend her.
In a recent article, she writes about a subject dear to the hearts of all of us involved in Covenant Discipleship -- doing and being. She affirms what we already know -- that we need to balance the two. Using examples from the Desert Masters she acknowledges that while our "cell will tell us everything," some of us are tempted to withdraw into our cell and rarely come out. I must confess that retirement has allowed me to indulge in more devotional time than I've ever had. I am tempted to become one of those retired folks who say they "have done it all and now it is time for me to rest." There is a difference between retreating into one's "cell" to learn more about God and just withdrawing into our own self-centered thoughts.
Some people feel the call to action more strongly; the call "to bring good news to the poor . . . to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free" (Luke 4:18). Some of us have experienced the burden of over-busyness, and burn out, as we try to bring relief to the hurting and justice to the world. Good works are exhausting.
Covenant Discipleship teaches us that God created us not only for a relationship with God, but also to care for and about our neighbor. Finding the balance between "roots and fruits" is not easy. We each feel the pull of being and doing in a different way. Covenant Discipleship helps us find the balance we need. It also helps children begin their lifelong journey toward spiritual wholeness.
Sprouts Activity on Finding Balance in Discipleship
Help your Sprouts group think about their preferences. Have them look back at their journals or recall what they have done during the past week.
- Are they more consistent in doing acts of devotion or acts of kindness?
- Which do they prefer?
- Is it easy for them to write in their journals or would they rather "go do it?"
- Do they like spending time thinking about God?
- Do they like helping people?
Have them draw a tree. Based on how they perceive themselves, instruct them to draw roots and fruit in proportional size to their own life.
- Do they have deep roots?
- Do they have lots of fruit?
- About the same of each?
Think of other ways you can help Sprouts think about how they respond to "being and doing." Make a conscious effort during Covenant Time, to look at the being and doing side of each Sprouts' responses. Talk about balance and the need for both Works of Caring (Mercy) and Faith (Piety). Help them find their balance.
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