Finding Rest

Moolack Beach, Oregon

---

 In the aftermath of the trailer incident (if you don't know about that, I would encourage you to read last week's post), I booked a motel on the Oregon Coast for Karen and me, one that would allow us to bring our 4-year-old golden retriever, Winston, with us. Karen had just finished a very busy and tiring school year, and we both needed a little bit of a break. We checked in, anticipating a bit of a windy stay, temperatures anticipated to be upper 50s to low 60s. Usually this means windy days and sweatshirts. We were surprised by how pleasant the weather in fact turned out to be. Few people on the beach meant that we could walk to our heart's content and allow Winston off leash.

   In the midst of the busyness of life and ministry, it is good to take time away and rest. In the midst of it, though, we must remember where our ultimate rest comes from. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus said, "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, 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." 

   There may be times when weariness and fatigue that seems to be the lot in life may feel overwhelming, and you may not have the chance to get away for a time of rest. Even if you can, keep in mind that we don't turn to things, events, ideas, or even other people to find our ultimate rest. We turn to the person of Jesus Christ, who took upon Himself the burden of our sins and sorrows. He relieved us of the guilt of our sin by nailing it to the cross. In exchange, He gives us His righteousness, a burden lighter and more restful than anything we could carry on our own.