Rhythms of Grace

I had a friend that sent me the following from her heart and gave me permission to share.

Have you ever had one of those days where everything just seemed hard? You know…the ones where it doesn’t matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to get on top of your day. I recently became aware that ALL of my days were feeling hard and there was no end in sight. Have you ever been there? Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? (Matthew 11:28a Message)

Whenever I read this verse I try to consciously stop for a minute and take comfort in remembering the fact that God knew. He knew that some days would just be hard being a mom and a Pastor’s wife. Maybe you’re like me and often wonder how many more things you can squeeze onto your plate or how much longer you can keep those plates spinning before one falls off and breaks into a million little pieces.

A million little pieces.

…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. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly. (Matthew 11:28b Message)

So how do we get out of the “life is hard” rut? Well, we already know, but some days we need a little reminder. I’m so glad that He wrote it down for us. …Get away with me and you’ll recover your life…Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly. What valuable keys!!

When I was little I used to love to watch my Grandma bake. She made all sorts of cookies and pies and cakes. She spent time on a regular basis in the kitchen preparing all of those delicious goodies that I so fondly remember. Then several times throughout the week a neighbor or two would stop by to say hello and visit. They never wanted anything. They just stopped in to say hello. (Those were the days!) Grandma would always pull out a freshly baked goodie and fix a fresh pot of coffee and then she would sit with her company and chat. Some days they would talk about important things but mostly they just spent time together.

I think God is the same way with us. Sometimes we need to be reminded to spend time with Him to prepare for our day and week ahead. How much we prepare for is up to us. And when there is a knock on the door it’s our decision whether or not to get up and answer it!

I want you to know that you are not alone. A life in ministry can be rough on a girl some days. And I’m sure that, if you are anything like me, there are those days when you feel like no one cares and God just isn’t listening. But there is a place for us!! A place where we can find a rhythm to our day that is not forced and is not hard!! OH!! I’m getting myself encouraged now! Anyone else?

See if you can find a comfy, cushy chair in a quiet place somewhere (it’s ok to lock the door.) And why don’t you take some time right now to invite Jesus over for some one-on-one time? Just pull out this verse (Matthew 11:28) and really ponder it. Think about His intense love for you and let it pour over you like warm oil from heaven. Get out your pen and paper and let Him whisper secrets from heaven to you so He can help you prioritize and order your days ahead. He’s so good at it!!

And don’t worry that He won’t meet you. He will. I just know it.

I pray this writing shared from an anonymous pastor’s wife will bless your heart today and you will let Him whisper secrets to you!