High Maintenance

28 "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. 29 Walk with me and work with me - watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. 30 Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." - Matthew 11:28-30 (The Message)

Over the years, our daughters, as well as Karen and I, have had some friends that we refer to as "high maintenance friends." It's not that they are bad people or that we didn't enjoy their company. It's just that they required so much energy (physical, mental, and/or spiritual) that after we got home from being with them or they left to go home, we're completely wiped out with exhaustion. We like these folks, but we know that when we are around them, we're not going to relax or be at ease.

The scripture text above is one that we can relate. Especially the first line. I have to hand it to Eugene Peterson in his translation of this passage. For pastors and leaders in church, this line so speaks to us at various times in ministry. We just get burned out on religion - not Jesus, mind you, but the toil that is associated with high maintenance people.

Normally, I read this and think, "Yes, Lord, you understand!" Then this morning, I was slapped right in the face with this sentiment as I read this passage in my daily devotion. Jesus does understand what it is like to have some high maintenance friends. And I'm one of them. I have never thought of that before, that I am one of them. I always thought that Jesus understood because, well, he's Jesus, God in flesh, knowing all. But I am coming to realize that it is more that just knowing because he knows, it's knowing from experience - experiencing with me.

Alas, before I got too depressed about that, I had to read on. From his experience, he offers me and you, the relief from the burden of high maintenance friends. It's not to shun them, because he hasn't shunned us, but to strengthen our relationship with him (Jesus) and learn how he deals with us. If I follow his example, not only will I change how I am, becoming a not so high maintenance friend, but I will be able to emulate that to my exhaustive friends.

Isn't it funny how Jesus teaches us? Just when we think we know something, he teaches us something new and better. Thanks, Jesus.

Godspeed,
Tim