“The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14
In four more sleeps I go on vacation. My sister-in-law always uses that phrase when she is close to hers. I don’t think I’ve ever appreciated it as much as I do this year.
I don’t like to wish time away. Each day is like a snowflake, individual, unique, never to be another one exactly like it. I typically don’t count down the days, I like to live in the moment. This year, I’m counting down the days. I can hardly wait for an entire week of unplugging.
Don’t get me wrong. I’ll have wifi. I’m really looking forward to doing some writing. There will probably be a facebook post here and there. But I won’t be working…
I won’t answer emails. I won’t teach tennis lessons. I won’t be walking dogs.
I love all of those things, but I’m ready for a break. I love all of the people I have met doing all of those things. I love being a part of their lives, but I recognize, like Jesus, I need to take some time away with God to be able to love them the way I want to love them:
“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Luke 5:16
I doubt I’ll be lonely. I’ll be with my best friend, my husband. I can’t wait to have him all to myself. We’ll be surrounded by people, none of whom I will know. I’m looking forward to meeting them and hearing their stories.
One of my favorite pastors, Mark Batterson always says:
”Change of pace + change of place= change of perspective”
I can’t wait to experience it. I’m excited for my new perspective. I can’t wait to see what God will do with this time of rest. How it will set the course for my next year.
Oh vacation, how grateful I am to take you!
Rest!
