Day 7: The Importance of Rest
Matthew 21:17 (ESV)
And leaving them, he went out of the city to Bethany and lodged there.
This is a short verse, but says a lot about our Savior, Jesus. He retreated at times to rest. If there is anything I have struggled with in following Jesus, it is this. I have trouble resting. I feel my time on earth is short, there are just so many hours in the day, and there is so much to be done, especially since I am a mere mortal and I want to leave a mark and make a difference in the world.
Jesus taught us, however, the importance of rest, and in this case, especially after being attacked and criticized for doing good. I can say that one reason I have made it serving 42 years in mission and Church work is that after an extremely difficult day or tragic heartbreak, I’ve been able to go home, get some rest, and return the next day refreshed and ready to go. Right now, I am taking the first ever two-week vacation in my life.
Are you following in the footsteps of Jesus and taking time to retreat from the crowds and get some rest?
Rev. Andy Bales
President/CEO of Union Rescue Mission