The Emotionally Healthy Leader by Peter Scazzero
Week 4: Chapter 3 — Slow Down for Loving Union
Read Chapter 3 of The Emotionally Healthy Leader. Key passages: John 15:1-11; Mark 1:35; Luke 10:38-42 (Mary and Martha).
In a culture that rewards relentless productivity, Scazzero issues a countercultural invitation: the most important thing a Christian leader can do is learn to be with Jesus, not just work for him.
Discussion Questions
8 questions1.Scazzero distinguishes between "loving union" with Jesus — a deep, contemplative communion — and the kind of functional, task-oriented relationship with God that most busy leaders actually have. In your own honest assessment, which of these better describes your current experience?
2.He introduces practices from the contemplative tradition — the Daily Office, lectio divina, the examen, centering prayer — as essential tools for cultivating union with Christ. Had you encountered these before? What has been your experience with or resistance to contemplative practice?
3.Scazzero uses the story of Mary and Martha (Luke 10) as a touchstone for this chapter — Martha is busy serving Jesus while Mary simply sits at his feet, and Jesus affirms Mary's choice.
a.In the rhythm of your current life and ministry, do you more naturally live from Mary's posture or Martha's? What reinforces that default?
b.What would have to change — concretely, practically — for you to move toward a Mary-like rhythm?
Closing Prayer
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