Many of us end a school year or a week of work carrying some baggage that feels heavy. As we walk into a weekend of needed rest, let us unpack the things that burden us.
Settle Yourself and Release
Take a few deep, slow breaths. Notice your breathing. Listen to the sounds around you. Notice any tension in your body and release it.
Encounter: Feast on God’s Presence
First read this passage aloud.
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.
(Matthew 11:28-30 MSG)
Pray
Picture a heavy suitcase or backpack. Show the Lord what is inside. Ask Him to help you to sort through the contents to see what you would like to keep for the future and what needs to be removed and thrown away.
Now imagine a dumpster or trash can. Take those things that are no longer needed and toss them away. Feel the lightness of your load as you again pick up the contents. Thank God for this gift of freedom for your spirit.