It’s easy to rest when you’re perched above the Raglan Harbour, watching the sun glisten off the silky water. While the current runs deep and swift, the surface looks like a million mirrors that reflect the glorious day. This is where I find myself today as I capture my thoughts, and it’s a refreshing tonic I well need.
Finding a slower pace in order to catch my breath is not something I’m inclined toward, but I find it essential in order to manage the pace of life and its demands. Life stands still for no one, and we are continuously buffeted by burdens, buffoons, brainwaves and breakdowns. Well, I am.
Life stands still for no one
Why is it that I keep trying to carry the weight of the world on my shoulders – do I think I am the Great Atlas? And why do I worry about the things of yesterday, today and tomorrow, as if an ounce of worry can change a thing?
why do I worry about the things of yesterday, today and tomorrow, as if an ounce of worry can change a thing?
The words of Jesus seem fitting here. I have always found comfort in the way poet Eugene Petersen paraphrases His words – they just seem to dive deep within me.
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (You’ll find this in the book of Matthew, at the end of chapter 11, if you’re interested.)
What a contrast between my way and His way. Here I am competing against myself as I wrestle inside a yoke that wasn’t made to fit me. Here I am weighed down by the perceived opinions of everyone in the world, while punching myself in the face with a self-concept that is far from real. It’s no wonder I’m so tired and worn out with all this self-harm I hide under my cloak of public persona. You, too?
What a contrast between my way and His way.
And yet, Jesus offers friendship and good company while promising to teach me to live freely and lightly. Don’t miss the invitation; He makes the same offer to you.
The key, I am learning, is to walk with Jesus and work with Him, as the tender words of the poet so beautiful poses. I must confess, like a novice surfer, I’m still trying to navigate the unforced rhythms of grace – but this grommet is having fun trying!
And so here I am, drawn to the sound of the water and the peace it brings. It’s as if the silence has drowned out the noise of the world and the space between my ears is free to linger on nothing and everything, with no burden of outcome.
Do not be fooled; the absence of noise is not going to give us lasting peace and rest from our weariness. Jesus warmly invites us to come to Him.
**Article as published in the ‘Te Awamutu Press’ Thursday 19 May 2022