CONNECT TO GOD
give a pep talk to encourage them to get it all done. Jesus’ exact words in Mark 6:31 are, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” It must have taken a certain audacity to pull away from the crowds to go to a solitary place, saying no to the needs and taking rest for themselves. For Jesus, rest is a priority in busyness; not just a treat for a job well done. After years of a rhythm of serving with little rest, I noticed my heart resenting all the activity and thirsting to slow down. But as tired as I was, I still found rest a struggle in face of all the undone tasks. I’ve come to realize that this is a result of being discipled to serve . . . but not to be still. I’ve learned to trust in my work more than in my Lord. This is something from which
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WE REMEMBER
Each generation has the opportunity to fuel mission for the next. We are thankful for the following gifts:
In Memory of Marilyn Benner, Aylmer Irma Daymon, Toronto Muriel Harrington, Brantford Mary Howey, Ingersoll Linda Mossey, Aylmer IN HONOUR OF Abby Davidson, Toronto Elsie Johns, Sault Ste. Marie (101st birthday in July) Virginia Travis, Port Stanley (85th birthday)
so many of us need to be un-discipled. I fear that if we don’t change course, we will continue to make disciples who run themselves to the ground, rather than ones who balance activity and rest well. I fear most of all that I would not last in this fight of faith if I continue on in the same way. To all, like me, who are tired and heavy-laden: Jesus will give us rest (Matthew 11:28). He reminds us to prioritize rest in midst of our hectic lives. Kingdom rest is audacious because it asks us to trust that the fruit of our work comes ultimately from Him, and not in our efforts alone. Jesus has set out two chairs in the middle of your life: one for Him and one for you. Take a seat, rest in His presence, and watch your trust in Him grow.
Bernice’s Picks . . . EVEN NOW CD by Rachelle Luk $10 • CBOQ Assembly 2021 Worship Leader • Winner of 2 Gospel Music Association Covenant Awards • CD includes new worship songs ReadOn Bookstore is open online. Order online, call or email. All titles available from ReadOn Bookstore 5 International Blvd. Etobicoke, ON M9W 6H3 Tel: 416-620-2934 Fax: 416-234-8840 E-mail: books@readon.ca readon.ca
live • July - August 2021
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