Wednesday, Jan 1

Scripture: Matthew 11:28 (NIV) – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Message: Life can often feel like a symphony, a complex arrangement of notes, rhythms, and melodies that come together to create a unique composition. Each person’s life story is filled with dynamic movements – some lively and exhilarating, others slow and contemplative. Just like a piece of music, our experiences ebb and flow, transitioning from crescendos of joy to adagios [slow tempos] of sorrow.

In this grand symphony of life, the pauses – those moments of rest – are just as vital as the notes themselves. In music, rest signifies a pause in sound, a moment where the listener can reflect on what has been played. It allows melodies to breathe and creates space for contemplation. Likewise, in our lives, rest is essential. It provides us with the peace we need to process our experiences, recharge, and prepare for the next movement. Without these moments of stillness, we might find ourselves overwhelmed, unable to appreciate the beauty of our journey.

Matthew 11:28 invites us to come to Jesus when we feel weary and burdened. He offers us rest – not just physical respite, but a deep sense of peace that transcends our circumstances, allowing us to find solace in His presence. It is in these moments of rest that we can reflect on our life’s symphony, recognizing the highs and lows, the joys and challenges, and how they have shaped us.

Imagine a musician who plays tirelessly without pause. Eventually, fatigue sets in, and the quality of their performance declines. Similarly, when we push ourselves without rest, we can lose sight of our purpose and the joy that life offers. We become weary and burdened, missing out on the beautiful harmonies that surround us. As we navigate the symphony of our lives, let us remember the importance of rest. Seek out those moments of quiet where we can sit in God’s presence, reflect, and recharge. Whether through prayer, music, or simply enjoying nature, let’s experience the peace that comes from resting in Him as an essential component of our life’s journey. Let His peace envelop us, allowing our life’s symphony to play on with renewed strength and joy.

Prayer: Dear Lord, Help me to embrace the significance of these pauses, and remember that by coming to Jesus, we can find the rest that our soul longs for. Amen.

Lance and Tamara Alexander