Finding Rest and Renewal in Jesus

Finding Rest and Renewal in Jesus

The clamor of clanking dishes was evident as Mary noticed her sister Martha seemed quite overwhelmed, rushing about to prepare for their upcoming visitor. However, she and her sister were both excited about the arrival of their friend and teacher, Jesus.

I am sure that many, if not all, can relate to this scene. Excited to greet a dear friend, anxious to be the perfect hostess just like Martha, we, too, can be easily distracted. We lose ourselves in the moment when the most significant detail of hosting someone in our homes is to be present. After all, the Messiah was coming to their home to be with them, yet Martha allowed the preparations and to-do list to take precedence over the guest.

Where do you find yourself on the scale? Do you identify more with Martha or Mary? Are the responsibilities of life beckoning for your attention? Is busyness distracting you from spending time with Jesus?

Mary was a living example of what it looked like to rest in the presence of Christ. She sought renewal over depletion.

Let’s take a look at three ways we find renewal in the midst of our busy lives.

Make Jesus Our First Thing (Luke 10:38-42)

The beautiful gift of womanhood requires many, if not all, of us to wear various hats. We are wives, mothers, daughters, caregivers, ministry leaders, and business owners.

We often multitask like pros and move through our days with inexplicable energy as we seek the finish line. However, such a lifestyle will quickly lead to burnout before we know it, especially if we are not being renewed daily. I also wonder if we can truly be in alignment with God’s will if our focus is on our tasks rather than on Jesus.

Starting our day with Jesus is the foundation. Spending quiet time in the presence of our Lord and Savior reminds us of who we are and our Creator. Our renewal and restoration come from Him; only Jesus can fill us with steadfast hope and strength.

Renewal Comes With Sacrifice (John 12:3)

Following Jesus requires sacrifice, and receiving rest from Jesus is no different.

We live in a world where we are always on the go, constantly receiving notifications from our smartphones and watches, and subconsciously trying to keep up with what society deems essential at the moment. Which, by the way, changes daily. But what if we sacrificed the distractions and noise of the world for the quiet fragrance of the Lord?

Take a moment and breathe in His fragrance. Imagine sitting quietly in a room of guests, and you observe Mary pouring a jar of pure nard on the feet of Jesus. Pure nard was expensive and offered a beautiful fragrance. Can you imagine the significance of this gesture?

What can you offer Jesus with such significance? Is there anything you need to surrender to cultivate a deeper relationship with Him? What can you pour onto another in an act of love?

Trust Jesus and How He Leads You (John 12:7-8)

Following Jesus will often result in the world’s misunderstanding (and judgment).

God may prompt your spirit to step out in boldness in such a way that those closest to you may not understand, which can lead to unwelcome advice, harsh opinions, and hurtful words. However, God knows our intentions and motivations, just as He knew Mary’s motivation for pouring out the expensive perfume.

So, my dear friend, be encouraged; if Jesus prompts your spirit, chances are you are walking in step with His revelation, and He will align your path. Trust Him and do not hesitate to lean into His promptings.

Rest in the Lord

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31 NIV

God’s Word promises that as we wait on Him in every season and situation, He will renew our strength. Why? Spiritual rest is a part of our inheritance as sons and daughters of Christ.

When we rest, we renew our mind, body, and soul. We realign with the Father, reinforce our identities, and strengthen our faith. When we pause and sit quietly in the presence of Jesus, an exchange takes place; we glean from His goodness and faithfulness.

It is the divine act of trading our desires for those of heaven. We surrender the reliance of our humanness for assurance in Christ, and we are strengthened through the Holy Spirit that dwells within us.

As you pursue Him, I pray you rest in His mercy and faithfulness. Let us run and not grow weary.

Shalom.

Image Credit by Parinaz Wadia Illustration

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