Jumpstarting the Day

The gripping and inspiring book, Mondays With My Old Pastor by Jose Luis Navajo, tells the story of a young pastor who is ready to leave his own ministry, so low had he sunk in energy, motivation and purpose. In a series of Monday afternoon meetings, a la Tuesdays With Morrie, he is rejuvenated by the old pastor's wisdom, sincerity and faith. When attempting to deliver his first sermon the Sunday after the old pastor's death, the young man finds he cannot move beyond the first few sentences he had prepared, and just fell into silence at the pulpit. He then went over to the cross behind the altar and knelt there, followed by his wife and, surprisingly, the whole congregation. Not a word was spoken, but all gazed at the cross and let it (Jesus) speak to them. It was the most effective sermon the young man ever preached and the most nourishing Sunday Service the congregation had ever experienced.
The old pastor had told the young man that he began every day that way, kneeling before the cross, especially when he found that his "success" as a young pastor had filled his days with too much to do. He felt an emptiness and ineffectiveness as a result, of putting things to do ahead of prayer, and resolved never to let that happen again. So always he began the day with silent time before the cross. Then he would open his Bible and read a verse or two, and continue his prayer. He admonished the young pastor never to let his daily planner take precedence over the Bible.
Two verses leapt out at me this morning, which I want to share with you, knowing that they might strike a chord with you and help you jump start your day: "Whoever possesses the Son has life; who ever does not possesses the Son of God does not have life." (1 Jn 5:13). And, "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest." (Mt 11:28).
Sirach tells us in 51: 23-27, Come to me, you untutored, and take up lodging in the house of instruction; How long will you deprive yourself of wisdom's food, how long endure such bitter thirst? I open my mount and speak of her; gain wisdom for yourselves at no cost.
Take her yoke upon your neck; that your mind may receive her teaching, For she is close to those who seek her, and the one who is earnest finds her.
See for yourselves! I have labored only a little, but have found much".
Bro. Rene