Devotional Messages

DEVOTIONAL MESSAGE

Psalm 55:22: “Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you;”

Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”

I know I am not alone when I say that I don’t always sleep well at night. This seems to have gotten worse as I’ve gotten older.  I’ve tried all of the things they say might help.  Take melatonin, some friends have suggested.  Others have encouraged me to try deep stretches and slow breathing before bed. And all the experts say to definitely limit screen time in bed.  I’ve tried these to varying extents, but often still find myself tossing and turning.  My latest strategy is to put on a youtube video from the Sleepy Science Channel. Last night I listened to 100 Sleepy Facts about Radiation. It definitely did help quiet my mind, but still…the underlying issue for me remains.

When I lay down to go to sleep, my mind immediately starts reviewing my day - everything I did and said (or didn’t do, or didn’t say).  Was I too harsh to the worker at the auto repair shop who delivered the bad news of how much the repair would cost?  Was my response to my friend who shared a struggle they were having sufficient?  Did I accomplish the things I had set out to accomplish for the day?  And what about tomorrow - will I be more productive - be more patient - do what I need to do?  How will I handle situation x, y, or z? Will I find the answers?  These are the things my mind has trouble letting go.  But the scriptures from Psalms and Matthew remind us that if we focus our mind on God, we CAN find rest.  This is, of course, much easier said than done.  I am reminded also of the words from Paul in 1 Thessalonians to “pray without ceasing.” Perhaps truly learning to do this would allow me to “cast my burdens upon the Lord.” Perhaps…

Oh God of stillness and peace, fill our hearts and our minds, that we might “let go and let love”, and find rest in you.

In Christian Love,

Karen Cliffe
(Pastor Rebecca on Sabbatical)