This past month, we have looked at the topic of Rest from different angles.
Physical, mental, spiritual and emotional rest remain a constant challenge even into the last weeks of 2022. We lead busy lives and tell ourselves that we can rest later. We tell ourselves there’s no time to pause and rest to be ‘recharged’.
In a world that is fast to judge, quick to criticise and slow to forgive, we judge ourselves the same way.
It’s okay to rest. We deserve to rest. We need to rest.
Remember that what we’ve done is seen and acknowledged by our Heavenly Father.
We need not do anything more to be loved by Him.
We can take our rest in His comforting arms.
“Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 (ESV)
How can we find time to rest?
How can we put aside the endless tasks we have, even if just for a while?
One of the hymns I find comforting in times when I need rest is “Reach Out To Jesus” (Elvis Presley).
The songwriter reminds us at the end of each verse that we have Jesus to call out to, if only we are willing to lean on His rest.
Rest is important. In fact, rest is Biblical.
In the bible, rest is mentioned repeatedly, beginning with Genesis where God worked to create the world for six days straight, and then He rested.
Take a few days off to rest physically. To restore the mind and spirit. To get in touch with your emotions.
As we wrap up 2022, let us take a moment to reflect upon the year.
Let us give ourselves credit where credit is due. A pat on the back for a job well done.
Deacon Theodore Lai