Rest to Take Breath

 

I recently read a new book by Karen Ehman called Listen Love Repeat.

It rocked my world so much I read it three more times, allowing it to sink in. The text is about making a sacrifice of time for someone so they know they are loved by listening to their heart, loving them and repeating the process with others. As I was reading along, I related to the words inside. I have always been a girl who serves. I try to be available when my people need me; I am the strong one. I have the words, hugs, and handholding down.  I can talk someone into seeing things differently after a good night’s sleep. I don’t answer questions I couldn’t possibly have answers to. I pray with someone, for someone, and over someone.  My heart breaks for my people when they feel broken or hurt.

Recently, I’ve found myself on the other side of all this, making parts of the book hard to read. I believe God uses circumstances to prepare us for big things, yet in current situations, I feel unprepared. I am not ready for the inevitable changes. On top of that,  I am feeling some other rather strong things as well. Maybe you can relate.

Overwhelmed?

Now there is a feeling we know all too well.

Loneliness?

Also our new best friend.

Under-served is another good adjective.

Hungry?

Only for a shoulder to cry on, and an ear to listen.

We never take the time to notice the very things we are good at are the things we need the most. Somedays, we need more than we receive. We need for others to understand our emotion, to hold our hand, to provide a shoulder or a listening ear. We need our people to expect little when we have little to give.

Amid all the things we are feeling, we are reminded of when Jesus separated from the crowd to pray, meditate and spend time resting. He took a few moments to spiritually fill himself. He purposefully escaped from his everyday situation, so he could return full force. He gave himself some rest turning to his father for comfort and reprieve, right up to the time of his death.

We need to remember if we are going to follow the path of Christ and all He laid out for us, then resting is a requirement. We have to take a step back to breathe, refocusing on ourselves for a time. Once we learn to utilize the tools Christ has provided for us in rest, we can move forward with more Joy and be thankful. We must make sure we spend time prayerfully considering all our life things, so when we have to handle the next stages, we are more prepared. We also need to be more intentional in our personal relationship with Christ.

This means making space in our planners for prayer, reflection and meditating on the word. Recognizing the ability within ourselves to tap into the gift of the Holy Spirit will provide us with greater understanding in our lives.  It gives us the still small voice of discernment and compassion. Once rested, we can begin giving ourselves in service once again, continuing the cycle of work and rest in Christ.