Today was a day of rest. Although we woke up early to go to church and ran errands after, a nap ensued upon returning home and spending time together culminated our restful day. Lately I have had a difficult time falling asleep at night. I haven’t had that problem in a long time. I know many people that struggle with that as well. Why is the ability to rest so difficult?
Rest doesn’t always have to mean sleep. A heart at peace, void of anxiety or hurry can produce a restful day. I have this vision I keep coming back to of being incredibly busy, but still having a restful heart and spirit through it all. Is that possible? I think that’s one of two beautiful gifts Jesus wants for us, rest and play. So many times when I pray, and envision us together in prayer, our time together is encompassed in rest and play. It’s a goal I have to live out that vision mentioned above and live a full, busy, purpose filled life in a state of rest, or maybe I mean peace. Does being at peace produce the same result as rest? I think so!
Having a relationship with the Prince of Peace is the only way I know how to live life with any sort of rest. Since we are beings that are not just body and mind, but mind, body and spirit, having peace in our souls is a prerequisite to live a peaceful life, one that is blessed with rest. That relationship can easily be set aside when things are busy, which is why our peace is often stolen during busy times and replaced with anxiety, stress and hurry. Filling up my mind with truth, spending time with my creator, growing that relationship with him yields a fruit that only he can provide: love, joy, and peace among others.
Today, I rest in His peace, in His goodness and strength for the days to come that I know will be busy, but I pray will be filled with His good fruit.