We need to look at the management of our time in several dimensions.
Let us begin with work or productivity. A human being needs to feel as if their gifts contribute to something larger than themselves. Work can seem to be just a necessary evil that enables one to survive. However, even in the most grueling of work, it is much more endurable when one can feel appreciated by others in what they are doing. The Reformed tradition that suggests that everyone has a call from God is an important recognition that work should provide a sense of fulfillment.
However, life is made up of more than work. A second important dimension to life is our relationships. This was an important aspect to the European understanding of the Sabbath. It was not only a time to cease from labor but also to focus on the nurturing of our relationships with God and neighbor. From a clergy perspective, one might want to ask the question of how much time is set aside for strengthening the relationships with family and friends outside our professional responsibility. Good relationships require time. Many a family has drifted apart because other demands on their time took precedence over time together as a family. A person can be consumed by an overpowering lonliness when they do not take the time to nurture good friendships.
Of course an all important third dimension that we need to pay attention to is taking time for self-care. A person who takes good care of his or her personal self, is more capable of being productive and having healthy relationships.
A final dimension to look at is our relationship to others in need. While much of our work as clergy is spent in serving others, too often that can become a burden rather than a refreshment. Because we have been blessed, we need to experience of sharing our blessings with others. It would be possible to take care of self, have good relationships, and do good work and still be in denial of the component of the justice of God that is part of a fulfilling life.
What other dimensions need to be addressed if a human is to be fully human?
