Liturgy 4
God’s work of transformation happens in the ordinary moments of our lives vs.
Life is only meaningful if it is new and stimulating
Reflection by Izzy Coiro

How does the counter-liturgy appear in your own life or surroundings?

This counter-liturgy is convicting to me because it is a common mindset of mine. I tend to get bored if I remain in the same situation for an extended period of time, which usually means that I become discontent. I keep up with trends and fashion fads, which can make me jealous of people with things that I can’t afford, or too self-absorbed to focus on my relationship with God. I love to experience new things and new places, which can be a good thing and a blessing. However, I need to remain content no matter what my circumstances are.

What habits or practices have most helped you to resist the counter-liturgy and live out the truth of the liturgy?

Limiting social media use can be a huge factor in working on the truth of this liturgy. Social media can be a good thing, but it can also cause me to focus too much on what others have, what I don’t have, and things that I want as opposed to things that I need. In addition, my life is saturated with noise. Taking a little bit of time each day to sit in the silence of God’s presence is helpful for me to clear my mind, remind me of where I want my focus to lie, and set my mind up for time for prayer with Him.

What is something you started doing at Au Sable that you’ve carried with you into your life back home? How is that shaping you?

At Au Sable, I started having conversations with other believers about their beliefs and how they differed from mine. This act has shaped me, and is continuing to shape me, into someone who can explain and stand up for my beliefs. But it also helps me admit that I don’t know everything and I might be wrong. I’ve learned to listen to others and not take everything I’ve been taught my whole life as the whole truth, without a doubt. I listen to and hear what others are saying, and come back to the Bible to further strengthen or adjust my belief.

How was your life of worship and understanding of God shifted as a result of practicing this liturgy?

I now understand that God is bigger than we can ever imagine, yet still fully involved in the details of our lives. As this liturgy states, “God’s work of transformation happens in the ordinary moments of our lives.” God cares about us and is working with us to grow in our faith, as a person, and in our Christlikeness. To do this, God may ask us to do big things, but He may just ask us to do the little things of life to the best of our ability, while living for Him. All we can do is say yes, no matter the size of the question.