Rule OR BE Ruled: PART 1
A short manifesto on taking back your peace
Before I get started, let me say this. Nothing I’m saying is new or fresh. Plenty of other intelligent, insightful, and wise people have been saying this for way longer than I have.
But to be clear, just because I’m not an expert doesn’t mean I don’t have experience.
This is a working document in which I’m sharing a lot of what I’m learning about what it means to live a slow unhurried life. Most of which comes from the Bible, books that I’m reading, and conversations with my wife over our morning coffee.
You may agree, you may disagree, you may be on the same journey as myself. Either way, I hope this is helpful for you and that the resources and personal insights bring to your attention what it means to live life where you are both present and aware.
Part 1: Introduction
The title of this manifesto, "Rule or Be Ruled," is borrowed from a book I recently read. It's a phrase that has echoed through history, spoken by those who have grown weary of being controlled. For me, it resonated during a morning walk in my small town as I listened to John Mark Comer’s *Practicing the Way*.
In his book, Comer discusses the "rule of life," a practice that helps followers of Jesus live centered and unhurried lives. He challenges the notion that we’re truly in control of our lives, pointing out that many of us are already ruled by the devices we hold in our hands. We know this to be true, whether we admit it or not.
While technology certainly makes life easier, I've come to realize that the more I have, the more I must maintain. This realization is what sparked the creation of this manifesto.
When I say "rule or be ruled," I’m not advocating for a life of domination or control over others. Instead, I’m urging you to be mindful of what you allow to govern your life, especially your inner life.
As followers of Jesus, we have the incredible gift of a risen Savior who holds all authority. While we might not be in control of everything, we do have a choice in whose voice we listen to and what we allow to influence us. This manifesto is about making that choice with intention, reclaiming our peace, and aligning our lives with the values of the Kingdom of God.
