Rest in Jesus
Carla Long of Eagle Mountain, UT, USA
“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
Offering rest to someone who needs it is one of the greatest gifts we can give. Many times in my life I have found myself needing rest and someone has always been able to offer it.
When I first moved to the Philippines as a volunteer for World Service Corps, I was definitely in over my head. I didn’t speak the language, I didn’t look like other people who lived there, and I was feeling like a fish in a bowl. One day early in my stay, I felt confident enough in my language skills and sense of direction to walk to the post office on my own. I got lost; and not only did I get lost, I didn’t have water with me. It was a really hot day, and I was dragging, to say the least. Then a kind motorcycle taxi driver drove up next to me and asked me if I was okay. In the Philippines this is fairly normal, as everyone seemed to want to talk to me, but this driver was different. He very kindly offered me a ride, knew where I was staying when I mentioned the name of my host family, and drove me home. I had never been so grateful for rest in my life.
I also experienced this while volunteering in Australia, and working as a mission center financial officer in Northern California and in Western and Eastern Europe. People have gone out of their way to make sure I felt comfortable and happy. I am so grateful for their kindness and hospitality to me. I have never forgotten the warmth that brings.
Offer rest to someone.
Prayer Phrase
Let your world of beauty capture me.
Spiritual Practice
Growing a Gracious, Generous Heart
Open your heart to God’s grace and generosity with a “breath prayer.” Let your breathing slow and deepen. Be aware of God’s breath moving in and out of your heart. Spend several minutes focusing on breathing in God’s generosity. With each breath, silently name one gift for which you are thankful. Let your heart expand to contain God’s gracious outpouring of love. With each breath out, name one gift you want to share from the overflow of your heart.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
