Our summer this year is different? Normally summer is a time to switch from the busyness of work; to slow down, rest and relax. We look forward to traveling, visiting distant lands, friends, and family near and far. But this year, living with the tension, anxiety and the constant adjusting to new processes and routines, our summer is different.
One summer we as a family decided not to travel or go camping during the summer break. We had recently bought a new home and were eager to carry on with some much-anticipated projects around the house. That summer I, with help, built a new fence for the backyard. My daily routine and rhythm switched from the typical work schedule to rising when I wanted to, having breakfast and continuing work on the fence. I could take a break when I needed to and end the day at my leisure.
While there are many frustrations with home projects and I had my share with the fence, this simple change in routine was a form of rest. My mind and body were engaged in something else, a project that was going to be rewarding at the end of the day.
Rest is important, even amongst the stresses and strains of this year. Jesus says, “Come to me, all you that are weary and carrying heavy burdens.” We are invited to lay down our troubles and burdens before God. In so doing we find rest in God who breaths life into us at our beginning and who will hold us at our departing.
