Summer Rest

Earlier this week, I returned from a vacation in Florida. It was a delight. My family had an enjoyable time playing in the warm water and enjoying the sunny weather.? (See above photo.)

On my flight back to Omaha, I reflected on the fact that I haven't taken a real vacation in some time. And I was reminded that working too much is not a virtue. It's important to be intentional to create time to refresh and recharge.

Since so many of you are very engaged individuals who actively serve others in your communities, I want to bring to your attention a Bible passage that is often overlooked. In about the middle of Chapter 6 in the Gospel of Mark it reads, "The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, 'Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.'” (NIV)

Notice that Jesus didn't say to his followers, "You need to step it up, there's so much more to get done."? Instead, he actually encouraged them to get away from their busy service and rest a little while.??

It's true that there are many people that need your time and assistance. And I thank you for your service. But I hope that sometime this summer you will obey Christ's words to get away by yourself and rest a while.

I'm confident it will refresh your soul, as it did mine.?