As we approach the end of another school term. This term has been an especially busy one, both physically and emotionally. We’ve had students and staff who have had the business of working and learning from home. While there were some joys in this, being able to be in the comfort of our homes, there were no doubt added pressures, challenges and stresses that came from this. It wasn’t too long before we returned to the college and having to again readjust to a different way of learning. On top of this was the stress and uncertainty of what was happening in our state, country and the rest of the world. Not knowing what was happening, being careful to not spread sickness, and lack of contact with family and friends and our community. Although things have improved and restrictions have eased, everyone is feeling a great sense of tiredness and a need for rest.
The following reading comes from Matthew 11:28-30. Jesus said: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon 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.”
Rest is important in the Bible. In our busy, fast-paced world where time is of the essence and the need to respond quickly can be vital, we can be left feeling exhausted. Sometimes, we can feel like our efforts are not enough, that the work we do in school or work wasn’t the best it could be. The Bible talks a lot about rest, telling us it is good, because even God rested from his work in creating the universe! In the scriptures, it is commended that we are hard-working, devoted people. But humanity was not created just to work and worry. The practice of resting on the seventh day, the Sabbath, is a gift from God. And although not practiced so literally today by Christians of not working on one day, its meaning and significance of rest, physically, emotionally and spiritually, remain the same.
Jesus lived the life of an everyday person, he knew what made people tired and weary, he understood the burdens and stresses of life, he lived the struggles and challenges people face. Jesus calls us to turn to him for strength. We can’t do everything, but Jesus always has his hand out to support us and guide us, no matter what we have been facing. And this rest and peace is not just for this life, but also for the eternal life yet to come.
Enjoy the term break, may God give you rest and peace, and enjoy this time with family, friends and loved ones.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
(Romans 15:13)
Mr Patrick Fabian
Director of Faith & Ministry