Today’s readings are about rest. Isaiah 40 assures us that the Lord will renew our strength, we shall mount up with wings like eagles and we shall run and not be weary. The Gospel reading for Matthew 11 is an all-time favorite, where Jesus tells the crowd, Come to me all you that are weary and your carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest…. you will find rest for your souls. This has been a beautiful invitation at various points in my life.

Having now rested for almost 2 weeks straight, my soul is the only thing that does feel at peace. I am still very tired as my body heals itself from a broken ankle and a concussion. In my waking hours I have  continued to sort through  big questions. The other night I had a good talk with the young man who is doing his residency in chaplaincy here. I think he was very surprised at where I am at spiritually. He was very affirming and had some insights for me that were helpful.

My body however continues to be weak. I have been up now for two days in a row with a walker. This purple flamingo can only make it to the chair in the hall. Tomorrow’s goal for myself is to make it as far as the loveseat.  I have been occasionally sitting in a chair for an hour and when I move back to bed I feel how exhausted my body is. Who knew that sitting could cause such weariness?  I look forward to the day when I mount up like an eagle and will not be so weary.

I pass the time praying, responding to emails and other messages, reading some excellent books, and visiting with people. I also have medical people coming to see me during the day to weigh in on how I’m doing.  On the Wi-Fi here, I managed to stream one movie. I have also listened to part of a Brené Brown series on leadership that I bought some time ago but I never listened to. I am catching up on a few things besides my sleep I guess.

I do trust the Lord to renew my strength, especially if I yoke myself to Jesus. I believe in God‘s loving mercy and power to heal.  I know that I am finding rest from buys so during this time. As I have said so often here I am in good hands because I am in God’s hands. Thanks be to God!

Peace,

Suzanne

Reflection Questions 

When have you found rest for your soul?

What is the cause of your weariness right now?

Prayer

Bestower of Rest, let me yoke myself to you so that my soul may mount up like eagles as my body recovers. Only then may I free fall into your good hands. Amen.