Rest

by Eric Garner

Today is not a day to study a text.  I have a few brief hours off before returning to Morgan Hill Presbyterian Church to run around with Junior High students, with hopes of encouraging their growing relationship with the Master of the Universe.  I am sitting at a Peet’s (Coffee and) Tea with several good books, some very tasty tea, and full expectations for a conversation with a friend who will be joining me shortly.

I have a number of things to be studying for: a discussion group on a book by Dallas Willard, a study I lead on Philippians with a group of college students, a lesson on Jonah for High School students, and a sermon on the prophetic voice in Ezekiel – not to mention all of my independent projects that always seem to be fluttering about in the periphery of my mind.
I am busy.

So here I must recognize an important aspect of study: rest.  Study is not about busyness, but rather must be about life.  Part of the liveliness of study involves leaving the books and enjoying the world, people, and God you are learning about.  Without this rest and enjoyment, what is the purpose of filling oneself with knowledge?

Do not let study become work that must be accomplished, but make it an aspect of a balanced and healthy relationship with our Lord and God.

Do not be like the Israelites of the prophet Jeremiah’s day, but heed the word of the Lord: “Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls.” (Jeremiah 6:16)

Amen