Rest Awhile

And Jesus said, "Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest awhile." Mark 6:31

Dear People of St. David's,

I pray that you are well and that you are enjoying these warm and beautiful summer days. This is an amazing part of the world for seasonal variety and is worth our thanksgiving to God.

I've been away a good bit this summer, but not for vacation until now. I flew to Guatemala for the start of the mission trip and to renew our relationships with our companions there. I spent ten days in Indianapolis as a Deputy to our Church's General Convention to participate in the life of the national Church and to make connections to support our mission and ministry. But no vacation until this coming week and I'm ready.

It's important in all of our lives to take a break from the regular. It's so easy to get caught up in our day to day lives with all its activities and commitments and people that it become harder and harder to remember why we're living the way we're living much less hear God's voice in our lives. Even Jesus understood the value of going away from His busy schedule to rest, reflect, renew, re-energize and His life is marked by a pattern of rest and activity, rest and activity.

So, as Amy and I head out on our little vacation adventure this coming week, I encourage you to come away from your life. Be still. Think deep thoughts. Listen for God. Eat good food. Look at your life. Do something ridiculous and rest awhile from your regularly and sometimes over scheduled life and allow the presence of God and God's love to seep into your soul. You'll be glad you did and so will all those around you.
   
Grace and Peace,
WFA