Sunday, March 15, 2020
Rev. Karen Lang

Our rhythms have been suddenly altered by cancelled plans, closed offices, and the encouragement to stay home. So how do we create rhythms of rest?  How can we seize this opportunity to be reoriented by the following words of Jesus Christ? 

“Come to me all you who are weary and carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Why is it so difficult for us to lean into these words of promise offered by Jesus? It is as if we are afraid of slowing down and allowing God to renew us. As we begin the season of Lent this year, let us lay down our own efforts of ‘trying harder’; own efforts of ‘getting it right’ and instead trust that God will meet us right where we are. There are natural rhythms that God offers to each one of us. Rhythms of renewal, relationship, and rest. Rhythms that feed us instead of drain us. God in the Ten Commandments directs us to rest and to lay aside the burdens of the week, and yet we resist. The beauty of sabbath—of taking a break—offers us space to breathe and truly live.

This Lent I invite you to first, consider what would the rhythms of renewal, rest, and relationship look like for you?

• Ask yourself: “Where do I find renewal?” Do you even know? Notice the things in your day and life that leave you drained, discouraged, and spent. Now, ask yourself: “Where do I find that I am energized? “What gives me hope?” God promises that His mercies are new every morning. We are not created to live exhausted, frantic lives. Crowded schedules are a reality of life today, yes. Exhaustion is not. Do you find that you long to be outside? Do you crave quiet, or reading, or a walk through an art gallery? Notice and then during this season of Lent, allow yourself to do the things that allow you to be renewed.
• Next, consider what people give you life? Set aside some time to just be with your family and your friends. Take a walk with your favorite nephew, or enjoy a cup of coffee over FaceTime with a friend. Notice what the rhythm of relationship brings to you. God gives each one of us people that ‘feed us’; people that make us laugh; people that encourage our spirits, and people that challenge us. Give your self the gift of relationship. Use this opportunity to deepen relationships. Live as if they matter.
• Last, how do you rest? Jesus regularly took time to be alone to rest, to pray and to be renewed. Does a nap give you energy? Does moving your body offer your mind rest? Give your self the gift of rest in whatever form you find most helpful.

This Lenten season may we bold enough to trust ourselves enough to lean into the rhythms of sabbath. May we approach each day knowing we are enough just as we are in the eyes of our Creator. May we allow ourselves to rest, to renew, and to enjoy relationships for which we were created. Amen.