“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out..? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.”
Matthew 11:28-30 (The Message)
This reflection comes with a disclaimer: every effort has been taken to encourage you to stop reading it and take up a better invitation.
“Are you tired?”
We’d actually be delighted if you now chose to switch off your screen and give God your next moments. Or is it a nap that your body needs? Rest and sleep is biblically approved (‘Don’t you know He enjoys giving rest to those he loves?’ Psalm 127:2).
“Worn out? Burned out..?”
It’s scary how long and often we can keep living tired and running on empty. You’ve our full permission to bow out right here and go spend time with our loving Father who longs to catch up with you. Let him know where you’re at (‘Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you,’ 1 Peter 5:7).
“Come to me.”
Jesus invites and accepts the tired, worn-down and burned out versions of ourselves. We can come to him as we are.
“Get away with me and you’ll recover your life.”
Jesus just doesn’t give up on us does he? A true shining example of what running to the hills* and prioritising time with God looks like in practice.
*hills optional, local green space next good option (or your favourite window hangout).
“I’ll show you how to take a real rest.”
As life gears up again, what an offer! If you’re needing a(nother) nudge, take yourself outside if you possibly can: close your eyes and connect to your surroundings through your other senses. Or watch the clouds and breathe. Take a slow, short walk, observing the signs of spring. Sense what kind of life is growing in you, through you, in this season.
“Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it.”
If you’re (still) reading this reflection, now is the perfect time to swap your device over to a Bible. Being in God’s presence, filling up on his word and inviting the Holy Spirit often leads to wonderful things (Philippians 4:6-7).
“Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.”
Still here? Now is the perfect time to tune in to creation and lean into our Creator.
Rest in the Maker’s Joy. Be part of the beauty. Be aware of God’s presence
Let’s make every effort to enter into God’s rest (Hebrews 4:11)
Some useful resources for further help If your mental or emotional state quickly gets worse, or you’re worried about someone you know – help is available. You’re not alone; talk to someone you trust. Sharing a problem is often the first step to recovery.
This reflection article was written by Jennifer Plummer for the Wild Christian email, ‘Nature and mental health.’ Jen is our Wild Christian Programme Coordinator and Communications Officer.
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