"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29 NIV
While summer doesn't officially end until September 22nd, for many, the Labor Day weekend is the season's last hurrah. Vacations are over, the kids are back to school, boats are pulled from the water, and the normality of life returns. We resume the busyness of filling our schedules with work, errands, and events.
In the chaos of our lives, we too frequently forget that Christ desires us to seek rest at all times of our lives, not simply a season. Amid our cram-packed calendars and daily challenges and stresses, Jesus wants to help. The Christ of the gentle and humble heart desires us to slow down and breathe. To come before him in prayer, offloading all our burdens. In that pause, we learn from Christ as we listen to his voice. In doing so, we will find quiet and serenity in his presence.
Jesus, we thank you for the rest found in you. We acknowledge that in our busyness, we often fail to find time for you. Instead of relinquishing our weariness and burdens to you, we needlessly continue to carry them. Forgive us; we pray. Help us to slow down and experience the peace you graciously offer. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
