Finding rest for our souls. This isn’t the same as taking a vacation or a day off. The rest for our souls can arrive as a gift in that pause that happens when we take a deep breath and take in the Presence of God- that is already here. I am up at Rainbow Trial with 11 middle school students. There are definitely all the exciting and fun camp activities like hiking, rafting, games of gaga ball and elimination. We also have bible study, congregation time and lots of hanging out time in the beauty of the San Juan mountains.
Yesterday in our small group bible study one of the teenage boys shared the it was the “Morning Watch/God time” (the early morning solitary time spent in nature) that was his highlight. It is so easy to be so busy. It can be a challenge to rest, to just be.
These verses from Matthew where Jesus is speaking gently to his followers come to mind:
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, 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.” Matthew 11:28-30
When I read the same verses several years ago as translated in Message it hit my heart. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. These words have walked with me:
“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.”-
Matthew 11:28-30 in the Message
The song Oceans by Hillsong was shared by Pastor Rosemary when we visited El Paso and the Border Servant Corp on our way to the 2018 ELCA Youth Gathering in Houston earlier this summer. It’s long- 9 minutes- maybe today you can take 9 minutes to just be. To listen and let the music be balm for your spirit and rest for your soul. Hear is your invitation to make a connection with the gentle God who is calling us into an ongoing and deepening relationship with the One who is gentle and humble in heart providing rest for our souls.
Peace on the journey - Pastor Margot