By Fr. Chris Harris
In our baptism, we promise that with God’s help, we will turn from the powers of sin, hatred, fear, injustice, and oppression toward the way of truth, love, hope, justice, and freedom. In turning, we reorient our lives to Jesus Christ, falling in love with Jesus again, again, and again. I recently preached on the idea of “turning” our lives into the direction of Jesus as a kind of first step in a life of faith. In that sermon I also mentioned that we are currently studying seven spiritual practices which together can help shape us in “The Way of Love” — and turning is the first.
Choosing to turn our lives in the direction of Jesus is not accidental, it requires intention. As Jesus tells us in the book of John, “whoever serves me must follow me and where I am there will my servant be also.” Turning doesn’t have to change who you are, but it will change where you’re going. Obeying the call to turn, means recognizing the things we put first in our lives, examining them and asking tough questions: Are my priorities pointing me toward God or away from God? Are they helping me live the Way of Love, or are the in the way?
Finally, choosing to turn is not a one-time event but an ongoing, lifelong practice of redirecting our steps as often as we are reminded to. And so it is helpful to have a community of fellow travelers with whom we share the journey. Those who can inspire us, encourage us, pray for us and challenge us, to stay on the path.
Questions for Reflection:
Putting it into action:
What might you do to put TURN into action in your life? Is there a practice that comes to mind? What new habit might you incorporate into your life to help you turn toward the Way of Love?
Here are some ideas to get you thinking and praying about what God might be putting on your heart today:
Some additional considerations:
Want to join with others as we practice the Way of Love? For more information, email Rev. Chris Harris here.
Chris, we are all in your debt for sharing this real and specific advice about how to get out of the rut of pious sleep-walking I so often find my self drawn to. Your directive that turning is INTENTIONAL could not be clearer. This is a true pastoral exhortation–something episcopalians are not always used to hearing. Thank you again.