January 4, 2014

Find Rest In Jesus

 

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

-- John 10:10

I am exhausted. That's not unusual. It was another busy day. Except there is a voice in the back of mind that keeps reminding me that it is Sunday. A day of rest. Not a day to be so tired.

What did I do? Attended church. Taught Sunday school. Bought lunch. Washed dishes. Completed late afternoon lesson. Led late afternoon discussion. Got home after dark. Still have family duties waiting for me. Then I can shower and fall into bed and blissful sleep. I hope.

Don't get me wrong. I have a good life. It is full of  blessings. I am grateful. I am. I just wish I wasn't so tired. I just wish the toll of this wonderful life didn't leave me too exhausted to enjoy it.

Maybe enjoyment isn't what it's all about. What is "happy" anyway? For many, it's the stuff that we fill our lives with. But for how long? Stuff won't fill that hole inside. It's momentary. Fleeting.

I consider what I would change about my day. Not much. I am doing what I love, what I believe God has called me to do. Fatigue is part of the cost and that's okay most of the time.

The other days of my life are a work in progress. This new reality that has engulfed me threatens to consume me. I am fighting it. There is a deep need for solitude that comes before everyone else has done with me for the day. There is a need for exercise and healthy eating without having to fight that battle every day. When do my needs matter to someone besides myself?

They matter to Jesus. I matter to Jesus. My weariness matters to Him. I find my strength in His words. I find my joy in His promises. And on days like this, when the fatigue seeps deep into my pours, it is where I find my rest.