A Gift of Rest
I am at rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him.
Psalm 17:15
Unusually tired after hosting a three-day family visit, I was frustrated for not having the energy to zoom through my usual Monday chores. And then I began to realize the visits with my grandchildren seem to tire me more than when I was younger—even though it is a “good tired.”
Our “littles”—ages ten and seven—resonated constant joy and, as always, were totally enthralled spending time with our 21-year-old granddaughter—the honored “first” of our four grands.
The gathering centered around a birthday party for our daughter where the main event was a musical talent show—with a no-excuse policy for not participating! We laughed and laughed as we unabashedly and unashamedly performed popular songs before the “birthday girl” serving as “contest judge.” Then, to beat the summer heat, the indoor activities gave way to even more antics while swimming in our neighborhood pool—all continuing to add to the collection of priceless memories.
But again I lamented, “Why am I so tired?” After taking my temperature and checking my vital signs, I gave in to the most reasonable remedy: R-E-S-T!
I went to our guest room and climbed into the king-sized bed—the one with the cotton duvet cover which has just the right billow and sound. The kids say it’s the cloud bed with the soft sheets and the crunchy covers. I justified the guilt of inactivity with the decision that I wouldn’t give myself permission to totally shut down, and decided to enjoy watching a documentary—the PBS production of Rivers of Life—The Nile, The Amazon and The Mississippi.
As I settled in to this remarkable series, I began to marvel at the importance of these rivers. Soon my heart began to thank God for turning my eyes toward Him through my chosen screen time. He had planned for me to rest…but to rest in Him, our Living Water while receiving a much deeper knowledge about these three mighty rivers He has created. My self-centered focus changed to praise and renewal while My Creator King, once again, rescued me!
King David’s description about how God created the earth awes me. —“The heavens were made by the word of the LORD, and all the stars, by the breath of his mouth. He gathers the water of the sea into a heap; he puts the depths into storehouses.” (Psalm 33:6-7)
Father, in this quiet and reflective time of rest with you, I am grateful for the gift of renewal of my mind, body and spirit by focusing on your Creation.
Jill Hendrix
Scripture references: CSB
