WHEN THE WELL RUNS DRY...

Many people were coming and going, so there was no time to eat. He said to the apostles, “Come by yourselves to a secluded place and rest for a while.” - Mark 6:31

One of the great blessings I experienced during COVID was the joy of rediscovering writing on a regular, consistent basis. Our Let's Do Lunch series was a joy to write and produce due to the chance to reach out several times a week with what I prayed was a pastoral, thought-provoking, and uplifting message during what was such a hard time for so many.

However, around the beginning of March, when we pivoted towards the coming days where we would be returning to more normalcy, I hit a wall and simply had no more to write. As much joy came in all of that, it got to the point where it was time for a break. I shared this with our Pastor-Parish Relations Committee when we met earlier this spring and was gratified by their understanding as to why I took a break from a ministry that so many were so kind to support with encouragement and feedback.

Admittedly, I have struggled with this over the last three months as I reflected upon and prayed about this work. All along I knew I would return to writing regularly, but was not sure when or how - until this week. Pondering Mark's account of Jesus feeding the large crowds, we notice in one of the verses immediately afterward Jesus' call to the apostles to get away for a little while to rest in a secluded space. That immediately brought to mind Exodus 20, where we see one of what we know as the Ten Commandments instructs us to take a Sabbath each week and to keep it holy.

Sometimes, friends, not only is it necessary but it is scriptural for us to take some time, especially as we see in Christ's word to the apostles. While I did not have a name for it during these last three months of not writing, I can see upon reflection that God's hand was in the midst of it as the God who gave us all the good and joyful things of life also gives us a season to rest in whatever way needed.

As we come upon the Memorial Day weekend, and head into a summer that promises to be especially active since 2020's summer was not, let us be sure to welcome our Lord's command to find rest so that we can be renewed and reinvigorated to carry on with what God calls us to next.

QUESTION: From what is it that God is calling you to rest so that you may be renewed?

Grace and Peace,
Lamar