Rest...what a paradox.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Rest (anapauō) 1) to cause or permit one to cease from any movement or labour in order to recover and collect his strength 2) to give rest, refresh, to give one's self rest, take rest 3) to keep quiet, of calm and patient expectation

Our culture forks out a ton of money looking for rest. Resorts are built on sandy beaches. College students earn degrees in hopes to help others find rest.

I have about five pair of "comfy" pants. All of them my attempt of beefing up my rest.

And these are all awesome. Don't get me wrong.

But Jesus says, Save your money. I can give you what no swooshy pant can offer. I can calm you like no resort on the sea. I can soothe your aches and pains even greater than the touch of deep tissue massage.

Come to me and recover. Collect your strength. Refresh in my presence. Be quiet and calm. Wait patiently. And expect from Me....I will deliver rest.

In coming to Jesus for rest we receive, "a leader we can trust; we no longer have to carry our own load; we receive clear direction for each day’s work; we never again walk alone; we always have One to share our load and give us the strength to bear our burdens; we can be confident of success and productivity; and we enjoy the delight of pleasing God, glorifying Him, and gaining eternal rewards." - Gothard

Today, I am physically tired (I just woke up - uh oh.). And my to-do list is off-the-charts. But still, I woke with peace. And rest.

It will all get done.

Oh, the paradox of finding rest in Christ...I can still be busy yet refreshed. I may be tired yet rested. I walk through extreme hardship...and have peace.

Occurrences only a Living God can deliver, wouldn't you say?

Take a minute. Breathe deeply. Give it all to Him. The worry. Your to-do list. All of the projects and appointments. Your tension and stress. Give it away. Jesus wants all of it.

And receive your rest. Now.