Rest

This morning I seem to be scrambling to find my way back to a schedule that includes time to write and research. For some insane reason, I am finding it very difficult to get motivated. I who set out to finish my master’s degree now have it. I ask myself, “What’s next?” Where do I find that spark of passion that moves me forward?

Perhaps this is my time to rest for a little while. I mean, summer is about renewal right? That includes me as well. When I think about resting, I acknowledge that my schedule for the last several years has been anything but restful. For the last three years I attended school year round by driving two or three hours to an airport to fly up to Denver. This occurred on a weekly basis. By the end of my studies, I did not want to see another airplane for a long time.

Rest did not come to our family immediately after seminary. My youngest son was hospitalized for most of the month of June. His port-o-cath became infected and needed to come out. While we were in the hospital he received a pic line. While the surgeon placed the pic line he accidentally hit an artery. Because of this, my son’s arm has been very painful. Yesterday was the first day since coming out of the hospital two weeks ago that he has not been in pain.

It made me wonder a little deeper about the issue of rest. I know that my struggles are only for a small season in my life. What about those who must face health and wellness issues on a daily basis? Is rest limited to those who do not struggle for more than a certain amount of time? I can honestly say that I don’t believe that to be true.

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28 NRSV). Look closely. There are no conditions that we must maintain to achieve this rest. We simply have to be present to receive the gift of peace. Unfortunately, I get very distracted and lose my sense of connectedness with the Divine. We have to show up. That means being in the moment. That means giving up the worries and struggles that overwhelm us in life. Sometimes we can give those struggles up for good, but at other times, we can give worries up for a moment. We can give them up for a second. Anytime we can surrender to the presence of our God. This is where we will find rest.

Jesus knew that those to whom he preached struggled with major stuff. He even acknowledged it. He simply invites all to come and be renewed. Will you take the journey to restoration? I know that I am ready. Peace to all of you.