Rest

 

Summer in New England does not last too long. It takes a while for it to get here then once it does, it is short lived before the crisp days of autumn arrive. Therefore, people in the northern states get outdoors as much as they can. From a hike in the mountains to dipping toes into a cold ocean, outdoor time is a focal point. These summer months also afford the opportunity to get away from work a bit and relax.

As there are only a few more weeks to summer, I was reflecting and realized there has not been much relaxing time this summer for me. I seem to have found things to keep me busy and by the end of the weekend I am exhausted, never taking time to rest. My family (especially my husband) gets frustrated with me when it comes to relaxing. For some reason, I feel as if I need to be ‘doing’ something. I assume I am not productive unless something is getting done. I know, I am VERY much like Martha instead of being more like Mary (check out Luke 10:38-42). I am sure there are a few of you out there who can relate.

God made us humans to not only be productive, but also to rest. God himself rested. When he had worked, and saw it was good, he rested on the seventh day. This should be true for us as well. We need to take time to rest. We are certainly no better than God! If God could find the time to rest, we certainly should be able to. What makes us believe that our time and what we need to do is more valuable than God’s time and what he needed to do.

Provide yourself time during the week to breathe without grasping at the next thing that needs to be accomplished. Sit back, let the sun hit your face, and breathe. Take a walk, watch a movie, spend time with family or friends just “being” – sitting around a campfire or enjoying ice cream together. Even, dare I say it, take a quick nap to re-energize. Rest is important. In today’s fast-paced world, the average person gets 6-7 hours of sleep. To function at our best, the National Institute of Health suggests 7-9 hours of sleep!

Rest! It is a cherished word. Take time, not just during the ‘dog days’ of summer, but make it a habit to take time to rest. By resting, we gain energy and can find ourselves with a better outlook on life. When we are tired, the weight of the world seems to be on our shoulders, and we cannot seem to get out from under it. Find time to re-energize and the weight will be lifted. The simple act of relaxation can bring you joy and peace. I’ll commit to doing it if you do!!

Heavenly Father, you rested on the seventh day from your work. Help us to remember to rest. You created us to work hard, but to also relax. Many days we can forget this. May we simply take time to rest from our daily chores and focus on the simple beauty that you have provided for us. In your name we pray. Amen!