I opened my eyes this morning and looked out the window. I can usually tell the approximate time based on the amount of light that comes into the room. As I looked, my first thought was, “I must have slept a little longer today, because it is much brighter than normal.” I looked at the clock and couldn’t believe that it was 9:30 a.m.
Yikes! I haven’t slept that long in years. Even with such a long rest, my body still felt weary and sluggish. What happened to me? Did a rogue tree trunk knock me out? Something left me exhausted and out of sorts. I gathered my thoughts and made my way to the coffee pot. Oh, the delicious first cup! That still did not seem to get me started. Today, it took me several hours to feel like I had any energy to get up and be a productive citizen.
I realized that this week has been a time of renewal and reconnection. It is a time that is crucial in my life and must be nourished. Failure to retreat creates anxiety and burnout. Moments of rest, even in the wilderness, are precious and necessary.
Today, I am thankful for a week that brings me closer to my family and myself. Praise be to God that there are reminders along the way that we are loved beyond our wildest imaginations. Our Creator loves us enough to put within us the need to reclaim ourselves and disconnect from the world. We come back stronger than before our rest. Clarity replaces confusion. Hope is born again in the richest parts of our souls. We are made whole.
From a Pastor's Point of View 
I have been known to sleep that long also but I stay up too late at night! Glad you have had a good week – have a safe trip home! We miss you.