Pause

A couple of months ago my wife shared with me the essence of an article she had recently read in a Christian publication.  It was titled “Pause.”  The basic theme of the author was the importance of working strategic “pause moments” into life for the sake of reflection, renewal and recreation.  The premise being, effectiveness in life and ministry is determined not just by the things we do, but also by taking time to “not do”-- establishing strategic “pause moments” in our daily schedule.

Jesus, during His earthly ministry, understood the value of this:

“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” -- Mark 1:35 (NIV)

It seems that Jesus started each day in “pause” mode.  Before He launched into daily activities and responsibilities of ministry, Jesus found a solitary, quiet place to be alone with His Father.  Everything He did during His days flowed out of the perspective and power He received from God during these vital times of pausing from the tasks and demands of hurting and lost people.  It was a key to Jesus’ ministry effectiveness.

Going back to Old Testament times, especially in the life of King David, we see the “pause principle” in operation.  Whenever David took up his pen and poured his heart out to God on parchment, he would often land on “pause moments.”  Before he went any farther expressing himself in worship, prayer or praise we often observe him taking a moment to think about his words, his emotions and the greatness of his God.

During those times of reflection, David would insert a word into his poetry that let everyone know what he was doing.  The word is “Selah.”  Roughly translated it means “to pause and think.”  Not only did “selah” describe David’s commitment to take time out to reflect on God’s greatness and power, it is a command to all of us to do the same.

What about you?  Are “pause moments” a part of your life?

Pastor Dale