In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland reflects on one of the most beloved phrases from The Message by Eugene Peterson: “Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.”

Derek shares how Eugene Peterson, whom he affectionately calls “Eugene the Wise,” has profoundly shaped his identity as both pastor and writer. Drawing from Answering God: The Psalms as Tools for Prayer and The Message translation of Matthew 11:28–30, Derek explores how Eugene captured not only the meaning of Jesus’ words but their texture—their emotional and spiritual feel.

Through stories from his own life including running track in high school, finding rhythm on the dance floor, and learning to live less from his head and more from his heart, Derek unpacks what it means to live in sync with the grace of God.

This episode invites listeners to slow down, notice the presence of God in the ordinary, and rediscover the gentle, freeing pace of life with Jesus. Grace, like rhythm, cannot be forced. It must be felt, received, and lived.

Key Takeaways

Grace has a rhythm that can’t be forced; it must be received.

The “unforced rhythms of grace” describe life lived in sync with Jesus, free, light, and unhurried.

Faith isn’t a performance of religion but an invitation to relationship.

The spiritual life is less about control and more about alignment, moving at the pace of Jesus.

The incarnation means grace is already near, woven into the grit and glory of ordinary life.

Questions for Reflection

Are you aware of God’s presence with you?

Have you been burned out by religion or striving?

What would it look like to walk freely and lightly with Jesus this week?

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:
Matthew 11:28–30 (The Message)
John 1:14

Books mentioned in this episode:Answering God: The Psalms as Tools for Prayer by Eugene Peterson
Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us by Derek Vreeland

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Learn more about Derek’s work as a pastor and author: https://derekvreeland.com

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