Finding Rest

Wednesday night is one of my favorite times of the week.  As we take the much anticipated turn towards the weekend, we gather with our small group to fellowship and study God's word.  Several weeks ago, we discussed the Biblical and practical nature of rest. Resting is a simple enough concept, but a state of existence that doesn't personally come easy. My tendency is to move, to think, to plan, to anticipate, to rethink, to redo, to engage, and to go go go.

My favorite time to rest is Thursday morning. I usually start the day with a quick workout and walk with the pup around the block. After showering, I always find my way back into my pajamas, this time with an accompanying cup of java to the tune of The Today Show. I spend the rest of the morning actively resting, tidying the house, sorting through stacks, compiling lists and strategizing one thing or another. This Thursday morning ritual is the reset button to a busy week.

While productivity is certainly beneficial to our family and my career (and while I have learned to seek and enjoy physical rest), it is no comparison to the true peace that comes through finding mental rest. Matthew 11:28 says "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." This verse reminds me of the peace that comes easily as I spend time in the word and seek comfort in Christ.

It is so easy to get caught up in mundane demands, many of which we bring on ourselves. As I bring my concerns to the Lord, he quickly settles anxieties and fear, and it is then when I truly breathe and feel a genuine sense of peace and rest. My prayer is to seek this gift on a daily basis, listening as I hear him calling.