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From Rev. Brock Patterson
"The Next Big Season"
The in-between time is always a bit awkward for pastors. What am I referring to? I’m talking about the time between Christmas and Easter. The two biggest days of the year are just a few short months apart, and since both days also include a season of preparation (Christmas has Advent while Easter has Lent), pastors are left with little more than a few weeks to prepare for the next Big Season.
What to do during the in-between? Prepare! But how? How does someone prepare for something that we know is coming, but we’re not sure of the surprises (good and not-so-good) that will accompany the big event? Every person and situation is different, but after over twenty years of preparing for two major events per year, I’ve learned a few strategies.
First, I’ve learned that I must take time for myself. What does that mean? It means making Rest and Relaxation THE priority. The engine must be recharged and it must be fueled. Like everyone else, I find joy and rest in my own unique ways. Rest and Recharge must take priority while they’re available; in a few short weeks, I won’t have that time.
Second, I’ve learned that putting a greater emphasis on diet and exercise is even more important. Maintaining good, healthy habits are critical in the in-between season to prepare my heart, mind, and body for the surprises that will certainly surface during the next Big Season.
Third, and my least favorite, I need to try and catch up on any personal and professional tasks, duties, or responsibilities that exist. I tend to procrastinate on my personal needs, so now is a critical time to tend to all of the little things (paying bills, preparing taxes, planning work-related activities, etc.). I don’t want these hanging over my head when the next Big Season arrives.
Of course, if I had family or a special someone with me, attention to those relationships would have to be the primary focus during this in-between time. “Big Seasons” are part of each year, and my loved ones know and understand that, but it doesn’t mean that they like my busyness! I need to give them all kinds of love since soon my schedule will not be as flexible.
I’m primarily thinking of our younger readers as I share these thoughts. Younger families and individuals who are smack dab in the middle of the rat race need to hear this, but it doesn’t hurt to remind myself, either. While the Next Big Season is always on my mind, I recognize that all of us are between our own seasons in life, however long or short the span. The times of quiet and in-between aren’t there by accident. God provides it, even if I don’t recognize it as such.
God reminds us that, "For everything, there is a season...” (Eccl 3:1, NRSV). Take time this week to recognize the needs and blessings of what God has provided or allowed for you! As we take care of our body, mind, and soul, we will find ourselves best equipped to serve God and others in all our seasons.
See you at the Chapel!
Pastor Brock
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