How Is Your Soul?

How is your soul?

That question has a special place in my heart, because Grandma Grimm used to ask people this on a regular basis, and not just people at church.  She would use this question as a sort of spiritual pick-up line while at the grocery store or waiting for a bus ride.  As I have mentioned before, Grandma Grimm was a great influence on my faith and she was a legendary evangelist, not only through words but also deeds.  I believe she had a healthy soul and desired the same for others.

On Tuesday of this week the ARC staff had the privilege of attending a seminar in Sioux Falls which began by asking, “How is your soul?”  Before we could answer that question, we had to first define what the soul is exactly.  Of course we know Scripture and even Jesus himself mentions the soul on several occasions:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.”  (Deut. 6:5)

“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.” (Ps. 42:1)

“What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”  (Mark 8:36)

The speaker also gave this helpful definition: “The soul is the place inside us where God is most present.”  Then we spent the day assessing the health of our souls and discovering how to incorporate practices that help to connect us more deeply with God and be led by Him as we follow Jesus and lead the church.  People may not realize it, but ironically sometimes Pastors and other church staff members are as much or even more neglectful of their souls than other people.

Probably what stood out to me most from the seminar was the example of Moses, who might be the leader in the Bible we know the most about.  As the speaker pointed out, we know his entire life story, from birth to death, and God transformed this humble man over time in profound ways.  How did God do that?  Through intimate times of silence, solitude, and reflection… normally in a desert setting.  Okay so you’re wondering if this is going to be some strange article about being more like monks and other ascetic-types who shun the world and spend their time in meditation, emptying of self, and yoga.

No that wasn’t the direction this seminar took.  The speaker was very practical and realistic about the unique time period and culture in which we live and the many demands for our attention and time.  And yet she insisted that the more time we are in leadership, whether at church or work or family obligations, the more time we need in silence with God to prepare our souls.  Specifically she helped us learn the value of daily silence/solitude, weekly Sabbath/rest, and occasional retreats where we unplug completely.

How does that sound to you?  Refreshing?  Intimidating?  Exciting?  Scary?  Just one more thing to add to the already busy calendar?  The truth is God misses being with us, and our souls miss God, too.  The speaker said, “You might be surprised what your soul would say to God if given the chance.”  Are you giving your soul a chance to speak to God and hear from His voice?  How is YOUR soul?

Cory Grimm

 

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