Rest for the Weary

It doesn't take much discernment to recognize the raised levels of irritability these days. Facing our limits has exhausted already low levels of patience, and everybody is a little bit 'touchy' (as my Mom used to say). I am noticing some of these things around church, and noticing it in myself as well.

Jesus has a word: "Come to me all you that are weary and carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls; for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light”.(Matthew 11)

What you are feeling is real. That which is causing your impatience is real. It will not help to deny these things; but Jesus is offering his companionship and non-anxious presence for this moment in time - and all time. To connect to his calm in the midst of the storm may well produce some generosity within us - the generosity of patience and kindness - towards ourselves, and then into the world, which needs it more than ever. GS