We recently had the pleasure of a house packed to the brim with out of town family members for Thanksgiving weekend. Although it was great to connect with family we hadn't seen in a while, it also had moments of stress as toddlers cried or had tantrums, periods of irritation as the dog was let into the house multiple times covered with mud or exuberant little ones took to the new sofa like a trampoline!
Oh there were times of joy and laughter as we played family charades and had an ongoing card competition. Joy and fun at watching the kids visit with Santa at the mall. There were also times of peace and calm when the boisterousness of the day gave way to napping and reading.
But even so, a house full of guests it is difficult. I dont remember ever feeling able to just relax and rest. There was always the next meal to prepare, towels to wash, bathrooms to straighten up and my neice's pacifier to locate or rescue from the Dog about every other hour! I love my family but I need to tell you I was ready for them to head to their own homes. I was simply worn out!
The Lord knows all about our busy days. He sees us when we are serving our families. He notices when we are up late preparing that batch of cookies to give to the neighbors. He knows when we are weary and when we need to stop and rest. He reminded Martha in the midst of all her many dinner party preparations that it would be better for her to take a rest and sit down at His feet with her sister, Mary. But we are women! We LOVE to multitask!
Matthew 11:28-30 is one of my favorite verses. (Probably because I tend to go overboard in busyness and even in serving.) Jesus said: "Come to Me, all you who labor and are weary and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upoin you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.
Next time, BEFORE I find myself feeling worn out and weary, I want to go to Jesus and learn how to take a real rest! I don't want to run myself ragged like Martha. I want to exhude peace and love and calm joy when loved ones come to visit. Don't forget to sit at the feet of Jesus this Christmas Season...The sweet peace of Christ is bound to rub off on another weary soul!
Sweet Blessings to You!
Kim
