Life-Giving List

#115

Friend,

When I was in seminary, I remember hearing the story of an emotionally struggling student, who went to talk to Dr. Reg Johnson.

Dr. Johnson taught about Spiritual Formation, and he was one of those safe, wise people on campus. This student made an appointment, expecting wisdom and direction, but Dr. Johnson didn’t spend much time with him.

Dr. Johnson asked him, “What do you love doing? What is something that you do that gives you joy?”

The student replied with a couple of different things that he particularly enjoyed.

“When was the last time you did those things?” Dr. Johnson asked him.

The student paused, straining in his memory for the last time.

Dr. Johnson told him, “Go, do one of those things, and then come back and let’s talk.”

The student left.

A few weeks later, a noticeably lighter student walked into Dr. Johnson’s office ready to talk.

Steve Cuss, author, podcaster, and future friend, has written about the necessity of a life-giving list. He encourages us to make a list of the God-given delights for us. He breaks it down into three categories:

1. People- Who encourages you? Who lifts you up? Can you go to coffee, schedule a zoom, or just have a phone call?

2. Places- Where do you feel at home? Think of places close (a favorite coffee shop) or far (the beach, the mountains, etc.). What places breathe life into you?

3. Activities- What produces joy? List small (a 20 second hug, listening to your favorite 90s country artist) medium (playing golf, axe throwing), or large (hiking, fishing, or going to museums.)

Struggling today? Go, do something life-giving, and then we’ll talk.

Love,

Aaron