Psalms for the Journey

A Prayer Service Series

By Rev. Caitlin Childers Brown

Pastor and Minister of Service & Community

I am pretty impatient. I want things to move quickly, whether it's setting up our house, getting a better grasp on the church, or working on our garden. I’d like it all done and as fast as possible. And I'm not alone in that sense of impatience, we live in a culture where fast fixes are in high demand. Everything from quick medicinal remedies for ailments, simple solutions to relationship problems, to even a highly efficient drive-through. 

I honestly think that’s one of the reasons Chick-fil-A has only grown in popularity—they are incredibly efficient. You know you can get in and out of their drive-through or restaurant fast, and we notice when they make upgrades to their process, making it even faster! You always know that you’re far from Chick-fil-A headquarters when they operate slowly—because they're just so known for their efficiency. There have been a few times in the drive-throughs in Texas and Virginia that I just have thought, oh man, this is not up to snuff.

But unlike Chick-fil-A and our collective desire for efficiency, a healthy spiritual life is not built through a quick fix or a drive-through. A healthy spiritual life is built by taking small steps of faithfulness and discipleship. A healthy spiritual life is cultivated by long obedience in the same direction. This fall during Wednesday Prayer Service, we are going to be taking a deeper look at these small steps of discipleship based on the Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134) through learning, prayer, and small group conversation. Based on the book, A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson, we will be looking at a different Psalm each week, along with topics such as worship, service, joy, and community. This 15-week adventure will be one where you can join for all or jump in for just a few, as you like. If you’re a reader or an extra credit type, you’re welcome to read the book by Peterson but you certainly do not need to. 

While I haven’t read the book before (it comes recommended by Ethan), I have spent a lot of time thinking about the slow steps of discipleship and how maybe these small steps really can change my soul, our church, and therefore parts of our world. I hope you'll consider joining us on the journey of small steps of obedience in the same direction!