“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’” Mark 6:31
I was a bundle of energy in my twenties. The world was full of opportunities and possibilities and I didn’t want to miss any of them.
Soon I was spread thin among my roles as a wife and mom, playing organ at church, teaching ballet, choreographing for local theater, speaking at churches and retreats, writing newsletters for our ministry. Part of the “I can do it all” generation, I tried to do it all–all at the same time.
Soon I found myself cranky and exhausted, and obeyed God’s nudge to attend a silent retreat. On a crisp fall day, I restlessly fled the retreat center and strolled their hiking trails.
“Lord, I know things in my life are out of balance, but there is so much to do,” I said. “I can’t slow down. Not now.” The trail led along a secluded pond. Green algae coated the water and a dank, heavy scent rose from the surrounding marshland. “You see, Lord. That’s what I’m talking about. Still waters don’t run deep. They are stagnant. I want to be a sparkling brook or a dynamic waterfall.”
As I studied the pond, a lazy turtle pulled himself from the water to rest on a moss-coated log. A duck paddled in gentle patterns. Dragonflies danced over the lily pads. I realized that this quiet, still pond provided a lush home for all kinds of life. I headed back to the retreat center with a lighter step, ready to tackle the challenge of rest.
Faith Step: Lord, teach me to find rest with You, so my heart can become a life-giving place during those times of stillness.
