Rest for Your Soul
By Eva Bachman of Lincoln, NE, USA
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 11:29–30 NRSV
We hold mid-week prayer services in a local congregation. A small group of friends meet to worship, pray, and share our stories. Though I shepherd another congregation nearby, I join in these services.
As I was preparing for a service at which I would preside, I chose to have spiritual stations instead of the standard prayer and testimony format. Each station had something to symbolize its theme and scripture verses to help with the meditation.
As I was finishing the preparations Tuesday evening, I felt God’s presence with me. It was so wonderful that I didn’t want to go to sleep. I didn’t want to lose that feeling. I tried to find something more to prepare for Wednesday that would keep me connected through the night. I did this by not choosing the last hymns until morning. It was a beautiful night—resting in the Lord.
I reflect on that experience and rejoice that God chose to join me in preparation for our worship. The mid-week service has always been a “pick-me-up.” Even when I had to drag myself there, I was always glad I went.
God’s affirmation of participation in my life reminded me that I always need to seek to connect with the Divine and prepare by resting in God.
Prayer for Peace
Center of all connections, may we keep our network open. When we hone in on your message, may we stay there for a while and rest in your Spirit. May we share your Spirit and your peace.
Spiritual Practice
Identify a form of music for meditation. If listening to music is not an option, choose a song you can sing or play on a musical instrument. Choose music that carries a soulful, spiritual, or healing quality for you. Sit quietly and soak in the melody and resonance. Allow healing waves of sound to pierce body, spirit, and emotions. What do you feel or see as you listen? Does the music have colors? What spiritual message comes? How does the music restore, nurture, heal, or move you to compassionate response?
Peace Covenant
Today, God, I will extend our times of connection as long as possible.
