Busyness can rob us of so much more than rest. Busyness robs of us of relationships, peace, joy, our health, contentment, and more importantly an intimate relationship with God. Busyness in today’s society is seen as a badge of honor. The busier, the better. The more effectively you can multi-task, the more efficient you appear in every area of your life: home, work, society—and, yes, even our ministries.
Read: Mark 6:30-31
The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 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.”
Reflect: Are you covering something up with busyness? I have used busyness to cover pain, to build my self-esteem when I felt insignificant, to fill a void in my life, to prove to others that I am worthy or adequate. Jesus, after serving so many, told his disciples to come with him to a quiet place and get some rest. Rest is important for us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Without rest, without going to our quiet place, we are less effective. We miss the important things, especially time with God.
Take Action: It is important that we take time to rest and be with God. When we do, we have a clearer perspective on life. We feel the rest and peace for our souls that all of us so desperately need. This month, take stock of your time. Look for ways to step away from the busyness of life to rest. Recommit to your daily appointment with God, knowing that we find our truest peace and our deepest rest when we spend time with our creator.
In partnership,
Center for Leadership Excellence and the Commission on the Status and Role of Women
We are grateful to the Rev. Rhonda Grant Jordan for writing this month’s issue of Encouragements. If you are interested in contributing to a future issue of Encouragements, please email josey.snyder@nccumc.org.