In these practice writing sessions, I have been trying to awaken the writing craft within my soul. The muse went into a state of hibernation when I took on the role of lead pastor of Cornerstone Church.

I used to write a lot. I generally turned out about four blogs a day. Some of that was written expression but I was also experimenting with photography and pencil artwork. I also finished a book and was toying with the idea of self publishing or maybe even finding an agent.

I knew when I took the role as a lead pastor, that my dedication to this art form was going to change. It was one of the things I considered when I answered the call. In the end the call won out. I was resigned, if need be, to say “good bye” completely to writing and my artistic side.

For all that, I did try to create a modified writing lifestyle. I managed to keep Lillie-Put alive, by posting a daily devotional blog. Over time though, the ability to write began to fade. I found my use of words becoming clunky and even ideas for blogs which used to seem a dime a dozen became harder to drum up in my mind. Other creative gifts also began to atrophy. I noticed my vocal range was shrinking and when I attacked the keyboard to wring a song from it, my fingers felt like sausages only mildly obedient to my brain.

I have not minded the loss much, though. The work I have entered into is some of the most rewarding work of my life. I know that this work is what God wants me to be doing. Still, I have to admit there have been moments that I have missed my creative side: I have missed music; I have missed poetry; I have missed story telling; I have missed art.

Then about a year ago, I noticed a change beginning in me. It seemed I was building capacity…room for more in my life. It seemed that I was being directed to fill that new space in my life with creativity. It has taken time to implement a rhythm in this new margin of life, but I feel like finally I am getting there.

It strikes me that this was not anything I consciously intentioned. It seems more a gift God is giving me for the season that lies ahead. However this margin has been built, wherever this capacity has come from, I accept it with open arms and I am so thankful for it!