This is the first Weekly Word coming to you from Durham Psychological Services! As such, we’re using it to communicate to you the mission of our company: to assist you in learning “the unforced rhythms of grace!” I wish I could take credit for that phrase, but here it from Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase of the Bible:

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

(Matthew 11: 28 – 30

Let me put it simply and directly. Our belief is that when we as human beings are living in the paths and ways that we were designed to live it, our lives will flow with a natural rhythm that is free and light – we’ll be in the groove! The reason for this is that when we are at peace with ourselves, and with those people around us, and with our God – nearly all of the conflict of our lives will be gone! Think about how much of your anxiety, or worry, or sadness, or anger – stem from a lack of harmony with the significant relationships of your life! When we don’t “keep company” with God, then we’re most frequently out of step with those around us.

This week – look for a new way and a new means – to fall into step with God and learn the rhythm of grace!