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Even though we had some standing as Christs apostles we never threw our weight around or tried to come across as important with you or anyone else We weren't aloof with you. We took you just as you were. We were never patronizing, never condescending, but we cared for you the way a mother cares for her children. We loved you dearly. Not content to just pass on the Message, we wanted to give you our hearts. And we did.
From Upper Room Disciplines 2011
Spiritual formation is a tender process that includes disappointments, losses, grief—and includes joys and delights. We share with others not only our good news of Christ but our hearts as well. In the process of intentionally helping to form others we too are being formed. We learn to be gentle, tender, caring, and to give of ourselves more fully.
Room, Upper (2011-10-23). Disciplines 2011 (Kindle Locations 3992-3993). Unknown. Kindle
Edition.
This is from the Upper Room Daily meditation for today. God works in mysterious ways. We become trained as spiritual directors or spiritual friends and think we are going to help others move closer to God. But we find that God draws US closer to Himself. He/She works through us tontouch the hearts of those we serve, but we are also transformed.
I tried as best I could to offer my work in this same spirit. Though far from perfect in acheiving this, I tried to interact with residents, staff and other stakeholders as a humble servant, not boastful and full of myself. I had my door open so that I could interact with anyone who sought my attention. I tried to listen as openly as I could, and offer suggestions, not issue demands. As the director, I had to make decisions that were best for the whole program, but I always tried to be as fair as possible. I encouraged independence as much as one was able to handle, and tried to create an atmosphere of interdependence. I readily admitted that I did not have all the answers and sought the wisdom of others.
And I received so much more than I could ever give. I was humbled by the courage of those around me to face each day with difficult mental health, or economic, or relational situations. I was blessed by the overwhelming attitude of caring that the residents showed one another, and, the staff showed the residents and each other. I readily had something for which to thank God each and every day.
Thessalonians is a passage i would recommend in any employment handbook as a guide for how we should all behave, especially in human services positions. I wish I had a training or teaching outlet. God has filled me with so many experiences and blessings, I would love to have a way to share them with others.
Creator of the Universe:
Thank You that Your plans are so much more than we can ever hope or dream. Thank You that You work from a Heavenly economy and not out of the meagerly attitudes of us humans. Thank You that when you call us to serve others, You bless us beyond anything we could possible do/give to others. Thank You for Your love and mercy "created new every day"!
AMEN!
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