We must design rest into our work and mission

Even if we are doing purposeful work and mission (or, maybe, all the more because we’re doing purposeful work and mission), it is important to design rest and slack into our activities.

The double-edgedness of meaningful work is that it can push us to stretch ourselves, but it can also burn us out if we are not mindful of our limits.

The best way forward is to build an ecosystem of support composed of trusted teammates and mentors who interdependently support each other.

Mark 6:30-34. …“Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” People were coming and going in great numbers, and they had no opportunity even to eat…. When Jesus disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them… and he began to teach them many things.

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-035: FEBRUARY 4, 2023]

Snap judgments

Snap judgments are quick assessments of a person, situation, or event based on limited information. While snap judgments can be useful in certain circumstances, they can also lead to errors and perpetuate biases. This is especially problematic when snap judgments are made about someone’s character instead of their behavior or actions.

In fast-paced situations, snap judgments can allow us to make quick decisions without the time and effort of thorough analysis. Additionally, snap judgments can also be useful in assessing the immediate danger of a situation and responding accordingly.

However, snap judgments can often lead to errors and misperceptions due to the limited information on which they are based. People are prone to making snap judgments based on personal biases, stereotypes, and prejudices. This can result in unfair or unjust treatment of others and perpetuate discrimination.

Our continuing challenge is to manage and audit our thoughts and feelings and discern: are we in control of our decisions, or are we slaves to our biases?

Mark 6:1-6. “Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James and Joseph and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-032: FEBRUARY 1, 2023]

To lead is to gain insight into the unseen

The story of Jesus casting out a legion of demons from a man living in the tombs highlights the importance of taking time to look beyond what is initially visible. It is the role of leaders and mentors to seek out underlying issues that may be preventing people and organizations from reaching their full potential.

The organizations of today may not necessarily be fighting against literal demons, but we face many restraining forces such as fear, politics, or reluctance to embrace change.

Thus, the vocation of a leader is to accompany and heal beyond what is immediately apparent. To lead is to gain insight into the unseen.

Mark 5:1-20. When he got out of the boat, at once a man from the tombs who had an unclean spirit met him.

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-030: JANUARY 30, 2023]

On the perspective and reality of stillness

When Jesus exclaimed, “Quiet! Be still!”, was He addressing the disciples, the wind itself, or both?

In a way, our perspective can influence our experiences and the context that surrounds us. The challenge is to remain centered no matter how turbulent the storm may seem.

Who knows, maybe the turbulence is just an invitation for us to dance with the wind.

Mark 4:35-41. “Quiet! Be still!” The wind ceased and there was great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-028: JANUARY 28, 2023]

On finding purpose and spaces for growth

To gain insight into our personal mission is also to gain insight into which space we are meant to be in.

Maybe the challenge of educators is not just to transfer knowledge but, just as important, to accompany students in finding their niche and spaces where they can flourish the most.

Mark 4:21-25. “Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a bushel basket or under a bed, and not to be placed on a lampstand?”

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-026: JANUARY 26, 2023]