Read the full issue of The Weekly Liberal published on Feb. 11 here.

“Thoughts on Brokenness: Don’t Hit the Gas Pedal”

By Rev. Justin Schroeder

If you missed Rev. Jen’s sermon from last Sunday, you can catch it on our podcast, here.

I’ve been carrying her expression, “It’s already broken,” like a prayer bead. This expression, “It’s already broken,” lessens the pressure to “be perfect” or to have the right answer, or live such a contained life that there’s no room for risk or experimentation. This expression allows us to slow down and recognize the imperfections and crack lines that we – and everyone and everything else – already have. In taking this reality in, perhaps we move toward some kind of wholeness.

“It’s already broken” reminds me of these words from Barbara Brown Taylor, as she reflects on slowing down, and even befriending the places of brokenness:

“Like many ambitious people, I had developed a dependence on adrenaline.

“I could get so much done when my anxiety was in the red zone that I learned to live right on the edge of panic, in that optimum zone between alarm and collapse.

“As long as I kept moving quickly, there was a great deal I did not have to feel. Sadness and loss were slow movers, along with bewilderment and doubt. Every time I heard them moving behind me, I put on a burst of speed.”

It’s already broken. Brokenness, loss, joy, and deep gratitude are already there.

If we’re rushing from a feeling of brokenness, may we slow down, honoring the brokenness in and around us, and in doing so, find an unimaginable richness and fullness in this life we all share.

I’ll see you in church,
Justin