Orange under pressure

I feel quite a lot under pressure these weeks and struggle to find focus and motivation for the season ahead. Partly it's the unclarity of the transition we're in, which silently sucks away creative energy. Partly it's being structurally tied (and likely overburdened) into project coordination and admin tasks which don't make me tick. Partly it's my personal working style that is not the best expression of a healthy balance of family, work, friendship and relaxation. Partly it's personal discouragement of unmet expectations - or is it midlife crisis already, having reached the magical age of 40?

Anyway, a week ago I talked it through with my board, and they suggested I would more radically simplify my life and work towards a sabbatical period in 2008, which would also (hopefully) create 'vital space' for writing. I know a new season is coming, and I want to be able to receive and flow with what God has in store for us and for his Body in Europe and beyond. My prayer these weeks is for boldness to let go of things that limit instead of release. Or as Harold Eberle said yesterday, when we met with a group of Shift friends in Hilversum:

"We don't have a work-slave relationship with God in which we are being rewarded for our work. But God called us into sonship, to live out of our inheritance."

Comments

[linda]

funny, a minute ago i just read a daily devotional about oranges.

http://www.churchgrowthmail.org/pages.asp?pageid=30781

[Paul]

I first thought you were referring to the take over of telecom provider Orange by T-mobile.
Come on, Marc! Pushing 40 is not easy (I've been there years ago), but I know you will make it. Have an orange juice for some extra vitamins, that's what I say.

[andiwolf]

not a work-slave relationship, but called to "dance". this is exactly what i keep hearing recently from on high...

[Karen]

This was an interesting post. I used to receive Joel News and Marc's Messages from you in the past, but have not checked in for about 18 months.
It seems so many of use are going through a time of transition lately where God is refining and shaping us. Personally I think this has to do with end-time events and what is going to happen in Europe. He needs a church and Christians who will trust Him no matter what and know how to access Him when things get tough.
I'm pushing 50 and that's even tougher!!