I am tired. I have so much on my plate. I am an elementary music teacher preparing three programs in three weeks. I am a devoted Nebraska Synodical Women’s Organization board member trying to make contact with every congregation in our synod with a women’s group. I am a busy mom of a 16- and 11-year-old with crazy schedules. I am a loving wife trying to keep the house clean in the midst of moving. I help at church…
Well you get the idea.
Now I don’t want you to think that I can’t handle all of this. Anything that the good Lord has set in my path, I have found a way to accomplish with grace and a positive outlook. For God doesn’t call the qualified, God qualifies the called.
We are all busy. The question is: How do we find time for rest and recharging so we are better, stronger women?
My favorite, go-to passage is Matthew 11:28-30: Come to me, all you that are weary and are 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.
What a wonderful thought this is. “Come to me…and I will give you rest.” All you tired mommies, all you who are sad, disappointed, angry or depressed. Not some of you; all of you. This has been a game changer for me and helped me realize that with the love of God, I can do everything God has planned for me, whatever that might be! And my dear sisters, God will do it for you too.
It takes courage to let go, rest and recharge. Take some time to help yourself and the women around you. Spend time with a new devotional, read a book, talk with friends, sit in the sunshine and drink coffee!
Whatever it takes for you to find your rest in the Lord, I encourage you to try it!
Elysia McGill, a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Falls City, Neb., is an assistant minister, Sunday school leader and active in her Café group. She serves on the board of the Nebraska Synodical Women’s Organization, has participated in many women’s retreats and helps at church any time she can. She and her husband, Matt, have two daughters, Madyson and Pyper. She looks forward to showing them and other young women what a BOLD woman looks like.
Women of the ELCA suggests you subscribe to Gather if you are looking for ways to slow down. The three-month Bible study that begins in September, “Slow Faith,” by Liv Larson Andrews, pastor of Salem Lutheran Church in Spokane, speaks to slowing down as do the articles in Gather.
Photo: Elysia and her daughters, Madyson and Pyper