Alignment Assignment

My maternal grandfather , the Rev. Rufus Smith Sr., was a man of many gifts. He built the house that we would visit during the summers and also built a house next door for my great grandmother. I remember my Mother showing me a special item that she got from my grandfather’s home. My mother told me that this was a plumb line. She saw my expression and explained to me what it was.

A plumb line is a tool used by builders and painters to find the true vertical. A plumb bob, typically a pointed lead weight, is suspended from a string and gravity then makes the string hang perfectly straight.

The plumb line lets the builder know the structure that is being constructed is erected perfectly true and the painter can use it as a reference line. The plumb line has since been replaced by more modern levels; however, it is still an effective tool. It’s all about alignment.

“And I will make justice the line, and righteousness the plumb line.” Isaiah 28:17

I spent time last week at a conference with the theme “Sacred Rhythms: Aligning with the Heartbeat of God” One of the foundations of aligning with God’s heartbeat was taking time to be still enough to listen to our own. Alignment to the assignment means slowing down. I was reminded that the theme I have been given for this season is Rest and Reset. This means being still and making sure that my prayer includes talking and intentional listening. My communication and prayer life helps guide me and let’s me know that I am holding steady as I am constantly being constructed.

Sometimes we are out of alignment and become accustomed to it. Just as tires need to be aligned on a regular basis, so do we. Talk to me, what do you do to align with the heartbeat of God? Leave your reflections in the comment section below.

Align with the Plumb line,

Sheila P Spencer