Matthew 11:28-29
Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. . . . you will find rest for your souls (vv. 28-29).
Something about that phrase, rest for your soul, makes me hum, “Let it be, O Lord, let it be!” We know the reality of weariness and carrying heavy burdens, but how will God give us this rest that we need?
When my husband and I spend time at our cabin in North Carolina, surrounded by natural beauty, I hear the psalmist sing, “I lift up my eyes to the hills—from where will my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth” (Ps 121:1-2). My soul is wearied by the divisions in our nation and world. It is burdened with grief after losing good friends to COVID-19. I’m weary from watching children in pain after being torn from their parents’ arms. My soul is weary from the growing divide between the rich and the poor.
When I sit on the deck watching clouds drift through the valley below, my soul sings: “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” A sense of balance returns. For me, this help isn’t escapism. Instead it refocuses my burdened soul so that it might find the rest I need for whatever lies ahead. The mountains proclaim the deep peace of Christ. The wind through the trees sings life’s balance and design. Bird calls quicken my spirit, and I smile. Nature truly shouts the dominion of God Almighty. I do not have to be in control. I don’t have to solve every problem, soothe every ill, right every wrong. I lift up my eyes to the hills and find God’s help anew.
Consider
When do you feel the need to be in charge or in control? Take time to find a place to let go and allow the Sovereign God to reign.
Pray
God, when we are anxious, show us where we can rest and find peace in you. Teach us how to lift up our eyes wherever we are today and listen for you. Amen.