On Again, Off Again, On Again

My writing behavior on here has always been “on” for a while then “off” for a longer while. Up until recently, I have felt quite guilty about this, especially how my endings are often abrupt and unsettled.

Between my various writing phases on this blog, my thinking on the subjects addressed here never stops. The thinking, meditating, and pondering always continues. The writing follow ups to those thoughts, though, cease. As I’ve been considering this, I have come to realize that this is quite often how the Holy Spirit works and that it is okay when things are left unfinished and an ellipsis….

Sometimes the Spirit moves us to share our ideas verbally or in writing, while other times we are led to a place of simply wondering and wandering internally. In those latter times, when we are not sure what to say or unable to articulate our thoughts fully, it is perhaps best not to say anything and simply embrace the silence.

My draft folder for this blog has many headlines and initial thoughts left unfinished. (The draft folder of my mind has even more.) Instead of feeling guilty about this (albeit some guilt may be merited) I am starting to realize that these pauses in my writings are simply times where the “Spirit has left” (though the Spirit never fully leaves the believer) and it is okay to abruptly stop and return when the Spirit returns.

All that being said—with, of course, more to reflect on in the future—here I am again. And now I want to start a new series of writings, this time based on the seasons of the church year, starting with this Advent and running through Ordinary Time 2025. The intent is one post a week for the church year that just started this past Sunday. I’m hoping you might join me on this journey regardless of your faith background or Christian sect. If you have never explored the seasons of the church calendar, I think you’ll find some amazing opportunities for contemplation that will deepen your faith.

If you are new to my writing here, you’ll see that all my Scripture references are from the Gospel writings, as they are the very core of Christian faith. I seek to explore how the teachings of Jesus are relevant still today and how the work of reformation (as individuals and as the Church) is always ongoing.

Let’s see where this goes…