by Chad Clark

Lisa’s sermon on the “Gift of Emptiness” this past Sunday struck a chord with me so I thought I would continue the conversation.  Empty is a good word to describe how I have felt at times lately.  I have been blessed in so many ways in life that I feel incredibly guilty ever describing myself as feeling empty – I have a beautiful wife and 2 perfect and healthy children, a good job, a roof over my head and plenty to eat.  I really have no business complaining about anything when looking at the troubles and trials that some have to go through to make it through each day.  I should give thanks for my busy life and I do but I think over time a busy life can be quite draining.  I have met some people who remind me of the Energizer bunny they just see to keep going and going and always with a smile on their face.  I can’t help but wonder if they have moments at the end of the day like I do when the gas tank is sitting on empty and I am struggling to find the pump to fill up for the next day.

Looking back though I can say that sometimes these moments of complete emptiness are when I have been shown the light.  It seems like my most inspired moments at church have come when I had to drag myself there wondering if I had the energy or fortitude to make it through the service – when I have been at total 0% mentally, physically and spiritually.  I think that instead of trying to fight through it when we are feeling low it is better to just go ahead and give in to the emptiness – let go of whatever loose change is rattling around inside of you and let God do the rest.  Trying to push on through just seems to send me the wrong direction.   I am reminded of a passage from a book that I am currently reading:

“I have always been fascinated by the law of reversed effort. Sometimes I call it the “backwards law.” When you try to stay on the surface of the water, you sink; but when you try to sink, you float. When you hold your breath, you lose it—which immediately calls to mind an ancient and much neglected saying, “Whosoever would save his soul shall lose it.”
― Alan W. Watts, The Wisdom of Insecurity

Prayer:  Lord grant us the strength to let go and be filled with your love.