Confession Time

Matthew 11:28-30
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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

Confession time— I struggle when it comes to resting and relaxing. Productivity is ingrained in me. Even when I watch a television show, I tend to work on the computer, crochet or read (yes I can read and watch TV at the same time.) Yesterday, after a day of helping with the staff retreat at work, I intentionally tried to rest. And I did it all wrong. I plopped on the couch and watched a show on the DVR. At the same time, I played Candy Crush. On top of that, I thought about what I should be doing and felt guilty because I wasn’t.

In Matthew, Jesus called his disciples to rest. Many of them labored as farmers or served as soldiers. They carried heavy burdens, both physically and spiritually. Many of the farm workers literally placed a wooden yoke on their shoulders and dragged plows. Others lugged whatever they needed much like a pack mule. They knew what it was to work and be weary. Jesus offered them rest. He understood the importance of laying down a burden. He calls me to rest in him. Had I grabbed my Bible yesterday and spent time in prayed instead of the TV, I know that I would have found rest. If I’d gone outside and reflected on God’s creation, my soul would have been renewed. I thank God for times of renewal and I plan to be more purposeful when I seek rest.

How about you? How do you find rest?