Last Saturday, I participated in a brief retreat with a close friend, having previously declined an alternate offer for a weekend on the north coast. Although I was tempted by the latter invitation, my prior commitment prevailed, and I am gratified by the choice I made.

The retreat conductor, a priest with an engaging personality, and warm demeanor, led us through meaningful hours of reflection. Through his insightful questions, he encouraged us to examine our history and recognize instances where God, in Jesus Christ, served as our rock and anchor (my words). Among his notable teachings was the importance of periodically pausing – to engage in introspection, meet, and assess our movement toward, a closer relationship, with God.

Reflecting on these insights, both during the retreat and in subsequent days, I was moved in a significant way yet again, to acknowledge in more than an academic way, the importance of pausing, particularly in retirement. You see, without this intentional pause, retirement itself can feel directionless and even chaotic. The absence of intentional pauses can impede our ability to engage in self-examination, understand our motivations, and explore our emotions. As a consequence, we risk moving forward without reflection – very much like a freight train at full speed – only to encounter unexpected difficulties, and confusion, before we eventually crash!

Recently, during devotion, I revisited the story of Jesus’ resurrection appearance to Mary Magdalene (John 20:11-14). Her decision, whether intentional or not, to remain at the tomb while others departed was in essence, a moment of pause amid grief. This pause created the space for Jesus to meet her in her brokenness and, as the psalmist observes, transform her mourning into joy (cf. Psalm 30:11).

Much of life today is characterized by grief, pain, and the complexities of daily decision making, the answers to which often elude us. It is in these moments, however, that God breaks in upon our consciousness, and if we allow Him, guides us along paths of restoration and shalom. Pausing, therefore, is not merely a physical act, but also a divine invitation to come apart (pun intended), so that the One who has triumphed over every adversity cf. Hebrews 4:15, may guide us toward wellness, and wholeness, which is God’s desire for humanity.

Despite various commitments and obligations, I am being reminded daily, to remain attentive to the deeper call to pause, which facilitates recognition and acceptance of my identity as a child of God, in whom the resurrected Christ dwells by His Spirit. Anchored to this foundation, I desire to live purposefully, knowing that in pausing and opening my heart to God in Christ, He meets me and enables me to experience the unspeakable joy He brings, in the midst of grief and pain, and the sense of purpose He bestows, in the sometimes rudderless journey, that is called life.

May you find courage, therefore, to pause; to place your griefs, pains, and burdens at His feet, and turning your gaze toward His radiant presence, may you embrace the unconditional love flowing from His heart, to yours.

Until next time, remain safe and well in His grip.

Grace+