Alignment

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There are lots of things in our lives that have moving parts that need to be aligned together in order to function well.  Vehicles, machines, instruments, beliefs, relationships, groups, and the human body are some examples of things that require alignment to work in concert together.
 
Most car owners who have bought tires, have had them balanced.  Then, at some point have been told that they should get an alignment, too.  There are lots of good reasons for it.  When steering is properly aligned, everything that is interrelated is affected.  The wear is less.  The life is longer.  But, the most noticeable thing is that the car passes the “hands free test”.  You know, that’s when you take your hands off the wheel and see if the car goes straight - as it is suppose to.   
 
When I think about it, alignment is one of those things that I take for granted.  It's one of those dynamics that is most noticeable when there is misalignment - when things aren't quite right.

The sustained and steady exertion of pressures like torque, velocity, and weight begin to skew alignment over time.  It just happens.  Mostly we chalk it up to normal wear and tear.  But, usage affects alignment.   There's a correlation between usage and wear.  ​When aligned components are used heavily - they will need to be readjusted more frequently.

While this is fairly simple, there's a problem.  I don't always make adjustments at the time they are needed.  I test the limits of alignment more often than I want to admit.  In an ideal world, re-alignment happens exactly when it’s needed.   But, unfortunately, in the real world, adjustments can be ignored.  They can be put off.  Misalignment can be minimized.  Operators can overcompensate – at least until there is a crisis!  Why?  Because the timing of the adjustment can be subjective, and it's too easy to "ignore it for just one more day".  ​

​​Alignment is even more critical in our spiritual lives: with God, others, and our ministry. 
 
Everyday stresses of life and ministry can wear on leaders.  The need to readjust can be frequent and even perpetual.  Spiritual disciplines, and accountability are life-blood.  Taking care of yourself, your family, and your team is critical.  Yet, it can be a struggle.  The tyranny of the urgent is an ever present obstacle.  Priorities and alignment can get out of whack.  I believe that the busier, or more intense, we are in ministry, the more we need to be intentional in realigning with God, spouse, family, friends, co-workers, and ministry.   

​At its core, the heart of this ministry is to come alongside busy ministry leaders. We all get worn and weary.  And, we all need encouragement and support to keep aligned with God and his purposes. 

Next Time: The Dragster & the Toyota

Photo Credits:
Top: Image by Gehard Gellinger from Pixabay
Bottom: Image by aatlas from Pixabay