The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
by John Mark Comer
The parishioner’s comment stopped me in my tracks: “Sister, I know you’re really busy, but….” Her words caused me to reflect on the impression I was giving off – did people think I was too busy to take time to listen to them? Was I too busy for the important things – my relationship with God, my local community, those with and among whom I minister, with myself? Or were her words simply a reflection of the world we all live in – one that values speed and instant gratification and sees busyness as a badge of honor? What example are we as consecrated women called to offer our society in these times? John Mark Comer’s 2019 book, “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry,” gave me much to ponder in answer to those questions.
The book was highlighted on the Hallow app as part of its Pray25 challenge during this past Advent. The author roots his argument against hurry in Genesis and God’s sabbath rest at the end of his creative action. Citing ample amounts of Scripture, and drawing from several other spiritual writers and traditions, he invites his readers to make the revolutionary choice to reject the hectic pace of modern life and instead adopt the wisdom of a rule of life. He proposes concrete and often creative ways of incorporating four practices in our lives to encourage a slower pace: silence and solitude, Sabbath, simplicity and slowing. All of these are part of our lives as religious women. But perhaps the reminder to take a daily, quiet prayer time without technology and noise; to engage in restorative activities and hobbies on the Sabbath; to embrace a life of contentment rather than consumerism; to single-task, to limit screen time, and to choose the slower option is worth taking to heart. In the thick of ministry and life in community, “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry” could be a helpful tool in safeguarding our authenticity and witness as consecrated women.
Comer, John Mark. The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. WaterBrook, 2019.
Book Review submitted by Sr. Stephanie Gabriel Tracy, IHM