The Power of a Good Time Out!

The past few months, I have come to appreciate the power of a good time out.  Unfortunately, not because I called a time out when a time out needed to be called, but I failed to call a time out when one was in order.   In both instances (one in a championship softball game and one in a social gathering), I believe a time out may have changed the outcome.  Here it is:

Have you ever been part of a team that used time outs wisely?  In other words,  whether they were winning or losing, they knew when to call a time out and the decision led to strengthening the team or shifting the momentum in their favor.  

Perhaps you were part of a winning or losing team this week. In either case, perhaps you feel the need to call a time out?

That’s exactly what Jesus did for us when he encouraged us to meet for communion any time we got together as a family of believers to remember our roots. 

At this time, let’s imagine that we are in a big huddle. Let’s listen to what Jesus and His disciples might say in a huddle.  time out!

Our father you are awesome!  You are unlike any other father and we welcome your spirit that gives us power, love, and self-discipline. Help us relax right now. If there is any tension in our bodies, help us to shut it off.   Satan- you are not welcome here.  Leave. Help us rest in this moment peacefully knowing you, the creator of known and unknown things and places, are in control. 

As we examine our thoughts, behaviors, and habitual ways of thinking, speaking, and doing, both as individuals and as a church, we pray you will help us focus on whatever is true, noble, right, pure lovely, and admirable.  Help us focus on things that are excellent and praiseworthy.  

We confess where we fall short and pray you will help us change the habits that need changed and build those habits that bring you glory.  

Help us never to be lacking in zeal but to keep our spiritual fervor serving you. Help us be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.  Help us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, 

Help us to be slow to come to our boiling point when it comes to forgiveness and help us forgive.  Father, we know we are called to vote once every four years, but we are called to be your church every day. We know you did not come to take sides, but that you came...to take over.  

Help us to make every effort to do what is right in the eyes of everyone and to live at peace with everyone. Help us to go and make disciples of all nations.

In Jesus Name.  Body that was broken for you.  Blood that was shed for you.  Let’s get back out there and do this…  Ready… Break...