Ever feel like you’re waiting to “do” something? Have you ever been unproductive and actually okay with that?
It’s hard for me to think of times like that. Even though I wouldn’t consider working hard and productivity one of my strong suits (or even values), I still become anxious to get things done. To an extent, I put some of my worth in what I can do. Jesus doesn’t.
We left Gainesville, GA on the night of the 7th for a 7:00am flight on the 8th (yes we were there almost 8 hours early – welcome to the World Race). We flew to Fort Lauderdale and then to San José, Costa Rica, where we got our bags, went through customs, and left for Curridabat, where we’re staying for the next few months. Since arriving, we have been learning about the country, our ministry partner, and the surrounding area. Through all of this, although it’s been incredible to be here and we have had an amazing time so far, I’ve noticed that I’m anxious to get started with our scheduled ministry. It’s easy to blow this off. We’ve only been here for 5 days, ministry is starting tomorrow, I guess these first 5 days are just going to be a little boring. Am I of no use because I am not doing something? Of course not. Will the first days be boring? They certainly don’t have to be.
A couple of days ago we heard from a local pastor that was giving us a cultural introduction/orientation about Costa Rica. One of the things he described was the task-oriented nature of US culture as opposed to the relationship-oriented nature of Costa Rican culture. Costa Ricans (or ticos) care much less about what you do than who you are. In America, often the first thing we ask people after their name is what their occupation is. I couldn’t help but think of my own desire to do, despite being surrounded by incredible people who I could be connecting with more intimately. What would happen if I was more invested in people than productivity? I definitely wouldn’t be anxious to get started with scheduled ministry. I’d actually realize that ministry has already started with the people around me, my team, and the rest of my squad.
I’m sure I’ll continue to learn more of what this looks like, but in the meantime I can’t wait to slow down, build deep and meaningful relationships, and grow even closer to the Lord, no matter what our days hold.
