Yourself

“Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things.” 1 Timothy 4:16a

Today’s verse from the Daily Texts is part of a longer section of instruction. As a leader in the church, Paul reminds Timothy, it is important to tend to yourself. The immediate point is for Timothy to take care that he is preaching and teaching correctly, but there is a broader point, too. You have to take care of yourself.

Love your neighbor as yourself, Jesus reminds us. This call breaks open the inward curvature of our souls, reminding us that we are to live for others. But it also reminds us that we are to love ourselves. Not through selfish gain or by ignoring the pain of others, but by attending to our own health and well-being.

During these days of pandemic and politics, there is no shortage of unease and anxiety. Pay attention to yourself. Christ died for you and was raised for you. The Spirit dwells in you. Slow down. Rest. Throw yourself into a life-giving hobby. You are worth taking care of.

And so am I. Since it’s my day off, I think I’ll go ahead and stop right here. After all, season two of The Mandalorian starts today. I’ll be in a galaxy far, far away.

Be well, friends. You are loved.

God of life, in you we find our rest. Help us to hear your Word. Let it remind us to take it easy on ourselves, that we might better live for one another. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Image: I don’t know, seemed like the world needed a picture of Anders in that sweet hat.