When I lie down to rest in bed, I am confident due to my knowledge of the mechanics and physics of bed and its capabilities to hold a certain weight. I can relax assuredly due to my knowledge and understanding of the bed.
When I look at my pet baby Raphael, aka Raphy, I see that none of the knowledge of the bed matters to him. All he needs is my presence. When I come back from any outstation trip, I can see the energy in his body, his excitement, his bubbliness, his joy, and all the spurt of energy that zoomies(sudden burst of hyperactivity) that comes out of nowhere, all that energy just seeing me home, and having my presence. I can see his heart fully at rest(content).
For Raphy, rest isn’t about getting a good night’s sleep. His heart is at rest if he knows or sees I am around him. My presence brings him to rest.
I look at Raphy and wonder about God’s invitation to rest for us, His beloved child(ren)!
What does this invitation feel like?
How can we experience the joy of rest?
If Raphy, my pet, can judge me as a good person who is loving and worthy of trust to care for him because he experiences my love and care for him.
How much more does The Heavenly Father love us unconditionally, relentlessly pursuing us, never forsaking or giving up on us? Every day, Jesus extends an invitation to receive his love and experience his loving kindness. Every day, Jesus invites us to his banquet of love, to feast on his love, and to fellowship with him.
Matthew 11:28-29
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavily burdened, and I will give you rest.
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me, and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me, and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
What a loving invitation from Jesus!
Our hearts are restless until they find rest in you, Jesus!