Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.
Plans have been underway for the last six months to go to the wedding of Mark’s younger son. He met his bride during COVID at church. Not many flashy dates due to the lockdown but quiet walks and dinners allowed them to get to know each other and fall in love.
We celebrated with them in Nashville last week. The whole family gathered to shower them with our love and give them our blessing. Mark has not traveled for over 4 years due to all his health issues but this was a command performance. I spent the last few months putting into place all the pieces for a smooth trip — hopefully — for both of us.
With all that is going on in the world I knew it would take supernatural intervention to keep all the links in the chain strong without a disruption. I enlisted the aid of family and friends to pray for us that all would go smoothly. And it did. I do think that God had a hand in it because the day after we got home, the Phoenix airport suffered from power outages. It didn’t affect us as we were already home. PTL!!
After unpacking, laundry, grocery shopping, getting the dog from the sitter, I stood in my room and realized I was tired. Not just tired, but exhausted. The weight of the last months lifted — we had made it home unscathed, things were back in place, and I just wanted to lie down and rest. And I did for three days.
Our Bible Study has been studying the story of Elijah. This week was the wrap-up describing his exhaustion and despondency after the earthshaking experience of God’s power and strength on Mount Carmel. He needed to disappear into the desert to get some rest. I’m sure we both experienced the adrenaline drain which leaves your body limp, your mind empty, and your emotions jumbled. Just let me have some quiet. God knew what he needed and sent an angel to provide food and water for him as he slept. I related to every aspect of the story — both the highs and the lows.
After a time away, God had another assignment for Elijah. It was different from the one just completed but just as important. I’m feeling fairly rested now and know that He will have something else for me to do.
It’s easy to get caught up in busyness and forget to take care of ourselves. I encourage you to be sure and take time to rest so that you, too, will be ready for the next adventure.