I’ve learned something about myself this year. Actually, I think it’s something that I may have always known, but perhaps I never really paid any attention to it. It’s not necessarily a fun fact, nor is it something that I’m proud of, but here it is.
I have a hard time resting.
I feel a constant need to go and do and accomplish and work. Margin is difficult for me. Sabbath is hard. It shouldn’t be, but it is. Even as I read the words I just typed, I find that they sound odd because while it is hard for me to rest, I’m know that rest is one of my greatest needs. I’m not great at creating margin in my life, but I’m increasingly aware of my need for it.
And I’m not talking about sleep, as wonderful as that can be. It’s so much more than that. The kind of rest I’m referring to is a quieting of the noise of life which results in an awakening of the soul, a coming alive to the presence of our Creator and an increased awareness to even the faintest whispers of His voice.
Busyness drowns out the still voice of God, the voice that is beckoning us to come and inviting us to rest. When the pace of our lives is a constant running from one thing to the next, we tragically miss the invitation. But don’t miss it, now.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
When we lack margin, “weary and burdened” are just around the corner. When we find ourselves bowing down to the constant demands of our schedules more than bowing down Christ, God’s voice is no longer the loudest in our lives. And that, my friends, is a dangerous place to be. Trust me, I’ve been there.
Just as I have heard His invitation afresh, calling me to set down my tasks and schedules and meetings and to-do lists in order that I might find rest for my soul, His invitation is extended to you today as well. Don’t miss it.
Come rest. Lay your burdens down, and find all that you need in His presence. The heavy weight of responsibility that you’ve been carrying that pushes you to keep going, never allowing for one moment to pause and take a breath—lay it down.
You’re invited.
Come, find rest in the One who created it. To all who are weary, to everyone who is burdened, fellow sojourner: Today you’re invited to lay down your heavy loads and find rest for your souls. For just a moment, position yourself in His presence. Sit at His feet. Drink from His river. Graze in His pasture. Feast from His table. Rest in His embrace. You’ll be so glad you did.
Love this!