Pause for Peace
For those of you that know me, you’re aware I’m a busy woman. Raised on a farm with high expectations from both parents to work hard at whatever the task, I developed a strong work ethic. I’m drawn like a magnet to look for what I think needs to be done and then strive to do it.
I’m not advocating my way as the best way of life.
I wrote two weeks ago about “being checked”–stopped in my tracks (mostly in my bed) by two different illnesses. Continuing sickness kept me from writing last week’s message.
It’s tough to be stopped and at first I worried about everything I thought I should be doing. But as days of illness extended into weeks, I realized my Father was telling me the same thing Jesus told Martha when she was worried getting her tasks completed:
Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed–or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Luke 10:41
Has there been a time when you needed to repeat the above scripture, substituting your name for Martha’s?
A place of peace
I will listen to what God the LORD will say; he promises peace to his people, his saints. (Psalm 85:8)
Two weeks ago, I masked up and attended a church conference where I served as a delegate. I was past my isolation period, but still avoided close contact with anyone, not only to avoid sharing or receiving germs, but also because I just felt so bad.
As you can see by the above picture, I was in an ideal setting to find and accept God’s peace, which is always available for us–if we seek it.
In everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you–you of little faith?”
Matthew 6:28b-30
Between meetings during this conference, I walked in God’s creation, soaking up His beauty, His love, and His grace.
His peace.
Reach out for God and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. (Acts 17:27)
God is with us–wherever we are, through hardships, trials, illness, and pain. He is our source of peace.
Katherine, I’m learning the difference between rest and sleep. I loved the way you illustrated your point today -just pausing to marvel at the photos of the flowers —illustrations of God’s creation in color and variety— gives us pause to rest in gratitude and enjoyment. Now to carry that with us. Marilyn
That’s an important distinction to ponder, Marilyn–the difference between rest and sleep. We know sleep is essential for us to rejuvenate and reenergize our physical bodies and our brain. But I think rest is the opportunity to bring peace to our soul and, as you point out, rest gives us the chance to reflect on God’s gifts and be thankful. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Wishing you a blessed weekend and July 4.
This post was most definitely worth the wait Ms. Katherine. I knew when I didn’t see yours last week, it was a prompt to pray harder. So great to see how God used your time away to draw you closer to Him. Glad you’re feeling better. Continue to allow Him to restore you fully sweet sister in Christ.
I’m so grateful for your prayers, my friend. God is bringing healing, slower than I would like, but just the right speed for His plan. Thank you for your concern and compassion, my friend. Wishing you and all on the Cross Dubya a blessed weekend and July 4.
Beautifully said, Katherine. I’m sorry you’re still not up to complete health. But, as you said, God has a purpose for you in this time.
Thank you, Annie, for your kindness ad encouragement. God knows just how to get our attentions, doesn’t He? Wishing you a your family a blessed holiday weekend.
My background matches yours, and I must often remind myself to be still in order to hear God speak. Thank you.
I’m grateful for your understanding, Diana. I have a hard time with the “being still” aspect, but I know it’s part of God’s plan to draw me nearer to Him. Wishing you joy on the journey.
There seems to be a theme in the posts I’ve been reading lately regarding rest. I too have been prompted to consider the lilies of the fields.
Though our cares are many, the promise is that if we cast them on the Lord, he will give us rest. I’m finding he is faithful in that
Blessings to you Katherine. I’m praying for your continued recovery.
Thank you for your prayers, Terri. I’m so grateful. Thank you for the reminder to cast our cares on the Lord–to take our burdens to Him. He will give us rest, but we must release the burden to Him. Wishing you and your family a blessed July 4th weekend.
Rest in the spirit is what our Father calls us to do. While He is not the one who makes us sick, He can use these times to call our attention to Him. I certainly hope your recovery continues and that you will be able to get back outside to the work you enjoy. I love your flower pictures!
Barbara, I’m so grateful for your concern and your prayers. I am feeling better, although working out in the 90+ heat is too much of a challenge right now, I’m getting stronger and able to do more. My Father got my attention, but He is caring for me, too. I am blessed. I’m enjoying your pictures of your travels. Hope you keep them coming!
I love the Martha and Mary story and it’s one lesson I’ve had to re-learn many times. Praying for healing and total restoration for your body and your soul.
I’m a slow learner when it comes to the Mary/Martha story. God gets my attention and then I sink back into the “overwhelming to-do list” again. I’m so grateful for your prayers. Wishing you many blessings, my friend.
I’ve become more intentional about rest. Even so, I still need to guard my time–to use it wisely–and walk away from work for a time regularly. Thanks, Katherine, for sharing your experience and wisdom. God bless!
You are so wise to plan time away from work. That is so important. Do you give lessons? I could use some strategies! Thank you for sharing, Nancy. I am always grateful for your wisdom and insights.
I’m so glad you were able to walk in God’s peace at the conference, and I hope it helps you feel better soon! those are beautiful pictures!
Thank you, Kathy. I’ve had more opportunities for rest the last two weeks and it has been so helpful for my mind, body, and soul. I hope you are having time for rest this summer.
I love finding God’s peace and beauty in nature. I find God there too!
I agree, LuAnn. His creation is so marvelous and amazing that I’m overwhelmed that He provided us with the opportunity to share in its beauty. Of course, that also means with have the responsibility of stewardship. I pray we will all care for this planet God has provided for our home. I hope you have the opportunity to enjoy being out in nature this weekend and that it’s not too hot.