A resource for quiet reflection and prayer in small 
groups, services, personal devotion, and the like

Aim
To explore how God ministers to us in times of burnout.

Focal point
A large red candle placed on some flame-coloured cloth.

Introduction to the theme
Invite participants in twos or threes to share a little of their day and week.

Then invite people to spend some time in quiet looking at the candle flame – times when it burns brightly, times when it seems fragile and vulnerable, times when it is blown in the draught, and so on. Bring into a prayer the time when we feel like that and ask for God's light and help. Read Hymns of Praise, p.745 verse 3.

Praying with the story of Elijah
Step One: A time of burnout. Ask someone to read 1 Kings 19.1–4. Think together about Elijah's circumstances. What were his feelings? Are there times when we too need to escape or be by ourselves? Where do we go?

In the quiet, jot down some places of retreat for you and give thanks.

Step Two: The need for rest. Notice how in verses 5–7 God ministers to Elijah. Including two meals and lots of sleep. Can participants think of those who have been ministering angels in times of need?

In the quiet, jot down those who have been ministering angels. Give thanks.

Step Three: Pilgrimage. Verses 8–9 tell of Elijah's journey. What would it have been like on the way? Why did he go to Horeb? Think what part Horeb plays in the faith traditions. Elijah returns to his roots.

In the quiet spend some time thinking of places and times which have been special and influential for us in our faith journeys. Try and get back in touch with their power. Participants might even like to draw a sketch or symbol.

Step Four: Listening for the voice of God again. Read out loud the story of verses 10–14. ( Perhaps experiment by listening to to some dramatic music followed by a different kind of silence.) Elijah shares repeatedly his feeling of loneliness . He watches creation.

He listens to the "still small voice" (notice different translations). Are there lessons here for listening to God?

In the quiet, think of any occasions when you have heard the whisper of God.

Participants may like to share some of their thoughts together.

Closing thoughts
The Elijah story ends with new tasks but also with the promise of allies. What are our networks of support and how do different people help us in different ways?

Other questions and material
Are there other Bible characters we can identify with e.g. Paul (2 Corinthians 1.3-11) or Jeremiah (15.18) ?

Are there other tips we can offer about coping with life's demands e.g. knowing when to say "No" or "Taking one day at a time"?

Finish by reading or singing together the whole of Hymn 745.

• Blessed are those who can laugh at themselves; they will have no end of fun.
  
• Blessed are those who can tell a mountain from a molehill; they will be saved a lot of bother.
  
• Blessed are those who know how to relax without looking for excuses; they are on their way to becoming wise.
  
• Blessed are those who are sane enough not to take themselves too seriously; they will be valued most by those about them.

Out of Darkness, Out of Fire A workbook for Christian leaders under pressure by Ross Kingham and Robin Pryor (ISBN 0 85819 729 4)

Ministry Burnout John A Sanford (I982 Arthur James)

Christ, Stress and Glory Wanda Nash (1997 DLT)

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