Rest for Our Weary Hearts
It is the middle of December, and the holiday season is in full swing. In our home, there is a precious baby experiencing the four-month sleep regression. In this world, there are multiple stories of senseless violence erupting all over the globe.
In a moment born out of another sleepless night, I sank into the couch and sighed to my mother, “I am so weary.” Weary? This was not a word I often used; it felt unfamiliar as I spoke it out loud. Yes, weary. Physically, spiritually, and emotionally. I was feeling the full weight of the word and the world in that moment.
Are you navigating weariness or difficult circumstances this Advent season? It can be discouraging trying to balance our heaviness with a season that is supposed to be full of peace, joy, and sparkly Christmas lights. If so, you are not alone. Here are two truths you can hold onto for fresh faith in your heart when times feel heavy.
First, we are invited by our Savior to find rest from our weariness in Him. “Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take up my yoke and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your soul. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (CSB)
Jesus speaks directly to us about our weariness. He does not ask us to keep pushing, He opens the door to rest in Him. So, let’s rest. When we live our life according to His Word, we find freedom from the physical, spiritual, and emotional burdens of this world. This is your invitation to slow down and rest.
Second, we have a God who draws near to us. “…and they will name him Immanuel,” which is translated “God is with us.” Matthew 1:23 (CSB) Isaiah prophesied this virgin birth and Immanuel, which was ultimately fulfilled by Jesus, as recorded in the book of Matthew. God desires to dwell among His people; He always has. It is a reminder of Who He is and a central tenet of our Christian faith. We have a God who draws near and promises us His presence.
This Advent season, we can put down all of the expectations we place on ourselves. Remember, we are invited to rest in Him, and our God is with us. He is where our souls find the rest we so desperately yearn for. With Him, our weariness turns to peace and joy in all circumstances.
