a day of rest

Today at church, Pastor Derk continued his sermon series on Genesis. The message today focused on the Sabbath and the importance of a day of rest (he also talked about work, but I'm not going to write about that!). He said that the definition of rest is "to settle down in" or to "enjoy peace". He likened it to the perfect camping spot. Well, I totally got it with that illustration.


You see, there is a BEAUTIFUL river in Idaho, the Selway. Michael and I went camping there once in our pre-children era of life. We drove down this gravel road forever in complete darkness, as it was around 1 in the morning. It took us forever to find a spot that wasn't taken. We finally came upon a beach on the river and proceeded to set-up camp, and like I already mentioned, we were in COMPLETE darkness. When we woke up the next morning and peeked out of our tent, I was so struck by God's beauty. It was SUCH a wonderful experience. I remember being so surprised by the scenery...the crystal clear river, the mountains, the white sand beach, the wildlife, the tall trees. It truly was breathtaking. It was peaceful. It was enjoyable peace. It was restful.

I often talk about that camping spot and that beautiful river. We found the place again just two summers ago when we went back for Mike's 10-year class reunion. I was determined to find that spot!! It is a place that I want to take our kids to over and over again!

I guess, with all this rambling, what I'm really trying to write is HOW do I find rest in Him now, without actually going to that perfect camping spot?? Later in the message today, Derk said that the day of rest is 24-hour time period to remind myself Who is in control, to remember the big picture, to enjoy the blessings in my life that God has given me, and to ask God to minister to me and speak to me. I don't know; I guess it just seems practically impossible to rest in Him with life still going on around me. It is my prayer, that even in the midst of chaos and even with my 5 blessings around the house, that I can find rest and find that "perfect camping spot" in the presence of my heavenly Father.