Following the Rule(s)

We all follow rules.  Some are more obvious than others. "Do not kill."  "Do not covet."  "Do not bear false witness."  These are general rules that our society is built upon.  We observe these rules to keep order and when we don't "follow the rules" there are consequences.  

Then there are rules that our personal lives are built upon.  "Respect your elders."  "Love your neighbors."  "Pray for your enemies."  Each of us lives by a set of rules, some shared, some created by our own ethical code.  Rules guide our behavior, form our being, direct our living.  Everyday we make a choice to follow the rules or break the rules.   Whether we acknowledge it or not, we all live by a "rule of life." 

Methodism's founder, John Wesley, had three simple rules by which he lived and recommended others live by:  "Do no harm. Do good.  Stay in love with God."  SImple rules but not easy in their practice.  Many have tried to follow them.  Many have failed.  But for those who have made the choice to attempt their practice, the rewards of living by them are great.  They become a Rule of Life.

In the spiritual realm, a Rule of Life is an intentional pattern of spiritual disciplines that provides structure and direction for growth in our relationship with God.  A Rule establishes a rhythm for life, a rhythm that reflects a deep love for God.  Spiritual disciplines help us to shed the “old self” and allow our “new self” in Christ to be formed.  They are a means of grace by which God can nourish and sustain us.  

I've never been one much for "following the rules."  I've rather enjoyed asking, Why?... even breaking the rules at times in my life.  Now, at age 50, I'm asked to create a Rule of Life.  Rather ironic, isn't it?  Tonight, I find myself asking,what will I include?  Prayer and study? Hospitality? Family?  Play?  Joy of living?  Simplicity?  Humility?  Honesty?  The options are endless.  My Rule of Life will include them all.  And unlike my life-long struggle to follow the rules, this time I get to make the rules.  I think I like that.