Alan Fadling: Notes from my Unhurried Journey

One of my presentations at The Journey retreat is on the theme of “Rhythm of Life.” “Rule of life” is more common phrase, but I find this word is less inviting to this recovering perfectionist.

In her book, Soul Feast, Marjorie Thompson says, “A rule of life is a pattern of spiritual disciplines that provides structure and direction for growth in holiness. When we speak of patterns in our life, we mean attitudes, behaviors, or elements that are routine, repeated, regular. Indeed, the Latin tern for ‘rule’ is regula, from which our words regular and regulate derive. A rule of life is not meant to be restrictive, although it certainly asks for genuine commitment. It is meant to help us establish a rhythm of daily living, a basic order within which new freedoms can grow. A rule of life, like a trellis, curbs our tendency to wander and supports our frail efforts to grow spiritually (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2005, p. 146).”

She points out (p. 148) that Martin Luther King, Jr. developed a rule to guide the nonviolent protests of the civil rights movement:

• Meditate daily on the teachings and life of Jesus.
• Remember always that the nonviolent movement in Birmingham seeks justice and reconciliation, not victory.
• Walk and talk in the manner of love, for God is love.
• Pray daily to be used by God in order that all might be free.
• Observe with both friend and foe the ordinary rules of courtesy.
• Seek to perform regular service for others and the world.
• Refrain from violence of fist, tongue, or heart.
• Strive to be in good spiritual and bodily health.
• Follow the directions of the movement and the captain of a demonstration.

Perhaps on this day when we remember Martin Luther King’s legacy, we might remember not just the outward good his life inspired, but the way of life that inspired it.

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