Rest, a four letter word that is sought daily, it is required to refuel and fill our spirit tanks. However, with today's society and our generation always biting at the bit, waiting for the gate to open and allow us to go shooting up the cooperate ladder, we more often than not settle for a "pit stop". We are exhausted and running on fumes, making time for a bite on the go and are practically hooked to an IV of caffeine at all times. Even when we do rest, we can't seem to stop our minds from racing through the upcoming week and the list of to do's we need to cross off our ever growing list. We feel guilty and lazy for not working, not providing and "wasting" time.
Personally, this is something I struggle with on a daily basis. Frequently working through lunch, staying late and coming in early, I am constantly running. When I'm not at work I am filling my time with tasks at home, grocery shopping, cramming time in with friends and family. While yes, I am resting in the sense of not working I am still going to the end of the world and back before I lay my head down Sunday night to start it all over again. Even when others offer to help I refuse, feeling guilty if I allow them to lessen my load, thinking it will be a burden to them. Being independent for many years I falter in accepting help, feeling as though it will hurt my pride and be a reflection of not being strong. How wrong my thinking is and how grateful I am to have a husband, friends, family and a God that constantly reminds me that is what community is for.
In times of stress or heavy workload, I can feel my mind begin to race through all of the things that need to be done, but then the words, "Be still my child" whispers across my mind. A peace, stillness envelopes me and I remember to breathe, to feel his presence and take one thing at a time. As hard as it is at times, I allow others to help lessen my plate and relish in the strong, caring community that surrounds me. It is no coincidence that the ones you love are uplifting you, it is a glimpse of heaven on earth. Our job is to love others and be loved, we are not to stop and inquire whether we are worthy of such love and grace.
As you reflect on rest and what that means remember God asks you to rest in him. "My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him..." (Psalm 62:1-2)
