Got REST?

As we celebrate this Labor Day holiday in many different ways including picnics, barbecues, fireworks displays, water sports, public art events and travel, I know few people who weren’t looking for a few “down days”.  The pressure and speed of life’s demands are exponential which often times stretch us beyond that which we desire or are capable of maintaining.  Most people were looking for a way to “get their batteries re-charged” and a three day weekend is often times an appealing way to do so!!

Labor Day began in 1882, originating from a desire by the Central Labor Union to create a day off for the “working man”. It is still celebrated mainly as a day of rest and marks the symbolic end of summer for many. Labor Day became a national holiday by Act of Congress in 1894.

As it relates to LABOR, where do we find respite and restoration …. and how do we find TRUE REST in the busy lives that most of us lead ….???

Jesus gives us the relevant answer in Matthew 11:28-30 ….

“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.”

King David, in Psalm 23:2, also spoke to this issue in one of the most well known passages of all time …. “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, He RESTORES my soul”.

Irene woke up this morning with lingering nausea and did have a dialysis session.  While driving to the treatment and referring to the Monday, Wednesday and Friday routine, she softly lamented, “I wish that we didn’t have to do this so often.” My heart instantly melted in empathy and I asked her if she was feeling somewhat discouraged.  With heartfelt emotion, her tender response was simply, “I see how much this is taking out of YOU and I feel really bad about that ….”

Candidly, you could have blown me over with a feather …. Here she is, “hiking up Mount Everest with very little cold weather clothing or equipment” and Irene’s concern is more about how this journey is affecting me than her own suffering and hardship.  It’s very humbling and yet inspiring to live with a person who has such tenderness for others.  Irene isn’t self centered; she is completely and absolutely “others-centered”.  I have told her many times over the years that some people have been “Touched by an Angel” (as per the television program title); I was fortunate enough to marry one.

Irene’s blood pressure has been high …. in the 170-180/95-105 range for about three weeks.  Her pulse has been running in the 90-110 range per minute for about 2 months.  Obviously, it’s another side effect of the Amyloidosis and ESRD.  Dr. Kumar, her renal doctor, ordered a prescription today.  We’ll be checking with Dr. Damon’s office tomorrow to make sure they’re in agreement with the medication type and dosage.  We want to make sure that both medical groups are on the same page before she starts yet another medication ….

JoAnna flew back to S. Cal today while Jocelyn spent the afternoon and evening at the house.  It’s been a quality weekend for our family.

On this Labor Day, as we relish family, friends, food, recreation and an extra day off, let’s remember that TRUE and lasting restoration for our bodies and soul can only come as we’re nourished by God’s Word daily and REST in Him.

Caminando con Fé
Dave