The Blessing of a Blank Page: Taking the Next Faithful Step
Have you ever stared at a blank page of paper, wondering what it is that you are going to write? This is exactly how I felt when I had to write a school paper, and sometimes when preparing to write a sermon. What is interesting is that I find lined paper even worse…it is like the lines are sitting there taunting me, and showing me how much space I need to fill. Lined paper also feels restrictive because I feel like the paper is expecting order in my thoughts.
The day that I decided to write for pleasure and from a creative perspective, rather than an academic perspective, was life-changing. I felt that with a completely blank page, I could use coloured pens, and I could draw and write. It allowed me to draw arrows and connect random thoughts until something emerged. I began to see the blank page as a space with endless possibilities and no limiting factors. My thoughts didn’t have to be complete, and orderly, I was free to unlock the flood gates of my mind and spirit and let things flow as they will. Along these lines, I think that many people feel that faith is something that is very structured. I think that sometimes we feel that to be a Christian we are required to act a certain way, or say certain things. We feel that there are unwritten rules that must be followed in order to fit in to the faith community we are attending. However, this is not how God works, nor Jesus, nor the Holy Spirit and thus the church isn’t as orderly as we seem to think it is.
What I have learned from Jesus and what has been reinforced by all of you here at Robertson-Wesley is that instructions are guidelines, and at certain times rules need to be broken. I can’t tell you how many times I have said come up with one word and share that, and inevitable people will respond to this request by asking “is it okay if I have 3?” My answer is always, “Yes, of course”. Who am I to limit how the Spirit is working in our midst.
What I have discovered through writing this reflection is that a blank page is a blessing! A fresh page, is a new day, thus, facing a blank page is a gift with infinite possibilities. The key thing to remember with faith, life and a blank page is that you don’t have to have it all figured out. I don’t need to know my conclusion as I begin to write my reflections for example. You simply need to let go and start by writing one word, or one sentence, or one thought. And if you stay open to the process the next thought or word will emerge. Being a faithful follower of Jesus is no different. We don’t need to know everything about faith and God. All we need to do is take the next faithful step. An example of a faithful step could be a small act of kindness, courage, or hope. Followers of Jesus need to trust that even these small acts can ripple out further than we imagine, for the Spirit is at work among us.
I have always loved the quote, “Small steps taken with love often lead to the greatest change.” When everyone takes a small step, it amounts to change, it makes a difference. I hope that my example of the blank page will help you to shift your thinking and instead of being overwhelmed by the idea of changing the world; or knowing the final outcome; or wondering how you can become inspired. I hope instead you will take the chance to try something small, take a small step, and be the change you want to see in the world. Our faith gives us hope and courage. All we need is a little faith, and as Jesus says it can be as small as a mustard seed! Even the smallest of faith can make a big difference! May the spirit move you to do the unexpected.
Blessings, Rev. Karen