How many times in a day do we hear someone say they are tired? I hear it everyday and in fact I say it most days. Today is one of those days. I am tired, worn out, exhausted, mentally kaput.

For several weeks I have not gotten solid sleep. Some nights getting 2 or 4 hours while others I manage to squeak out 6 — my mind has been in constant think mode. I wake up in the middle of the night panicked and need to make to-do lists. I wake up overwhelmed by how much work I have for the next day. I wake up wondering what I am supposed to be doing with my life because surely this is not it. Even in my dreams my brain is active — my dreams are vivid and full of life, action, suspense and busyness.

I try journaling and reading my Bible before bed hoping that will help, but no matter what I do I can not seem to rest right now.

All this thinking made my mind wander to a verse. A very well known verse about resting. Matthew 11: 28-2 MSG

“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.”

Unforced rhythms of grace….that has got to be the most comforting way to invite someone into rest. Come with me and “flow”. Come with me and “breathe easy”. Experience who I am. Such an open and inviting invitation.

As I lay my head down to sleep tonight I am praying this Celtic blessing:

Deep peace of the running wave to you.
Deep peace of the flowing air to you.
Deep peace of the quiet earth to you.
Deep peace of the shining stars to you.
Deep peace of the infinite peace to you.

I would love to know how you find rest when things are crazy either in your life or in your head. What calms you down?

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