"No rest for the weary!" It was a casual phrase thrown out during exercise class, as we were half way through our workout. It got me thinking. That phrase is dangerous. And it is false.
If we believe that phrase, and overtime if we adapt our schedules and rhythms of life to match that phrase we will crash and burn. I have even caught myself saying it as I throw in one more load of laundry and do one more load of dishes before going to bed, "No rest for the weary!" Really? On the contrary, there IS rest for the weary. And, when we create daily patterns into our busy lives we can be more rested than we are weary. When we are intentional about pausing our thoughts for a few minutes and considering what we are thankful for and take a big, deep, breath we will be less weary and more rested. When we practice some self-discipline and put away our phones in the evening, and turn off the tv and go to bed at a decent time, we will be more rested and less weary. We need to be reminded there is ONE who provides for us a refuge in times of trouble and extends an invitation to all who will listen that we can't pass up.
Listen to these words that Jesus spoke in Matthew 11:28-30 "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light." (New Living Translation)
Now read the same verse in the Message paraphrase.
"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me - watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
We can walk and work with Jesus showing us how to have those unforced rhythms of grace. You can learn new patterns and find ways to get away with Jesus to recover your life. What is it that hydrates your soul? Is it a hike, or a walk, or listening to music, taking a kayak ride or watching the sunset? Create space and take time to rest and be refreshed. Experiment with what works well for you.
There is indeed, rest for the weary!