Do you work hard? Too hard? What might follow ...

Photo by hiroo yamagata via Flickr

I work. A lot. As in gathering unused vacation time and such. Technology makes that so much more tempting.

But I might take advantage of more time off after hearing the news about how long work hours may increase risk for stroke:

As technology now allows us to work anywhere and anytime, thereby extending our normal working hours, it becomes more important to maintain a balance in life.

'Come to me, all you who are weary'

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, 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.”

-Matthew 11:28-30

I've heard many stories of people in stroke recovery who tire easily. Personally, I became weary, too. Things eventually improved, which, as a distance runner with a busy work schedule, I'm grateful for.

But sometimes, life can make anyone feel weary and burdened.

Physical weariness and heavy burdens are one thing. But Jesus, in this passage, is using that metaphor for the wearied and burdened spirit. The burdens can sap strength and hope.

Remember the promise, though: "I will give you rest." Find your hope, strength and rest.

'He is my refuge and my fortress'

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
    will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
    my God, in whom I trust.”

-Psalm 91:1-2

Ever need shelter?

Life certainly throws a lot bad stuff in our direction. Struggles with health concerns. Hard decisions. Life-altering events.

Note a couple of words in the Psalm quoted:

1. "Dwells." Not passing through God's shelter, but dwelling there. We don't have to rush out and face our struggles alone, then rush back to shelter. No. We face these struggles in God's shelter.

2. "Rest." Dwelling in God's shelter doesn't mean we abandon our duties. We can rest near to God - in his shadow - to regain energy and strength to battle these struggles and storms in our lives.

So stay close. Dwell in his shelter. Rest with God. Let him be your refuge.

'My salvation comes from him'

My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him.

-Psalm 62:1

What is "rest" for a stroke survivor or caregiver?

I think of it as finding peace, as finding a place without constant turmoil, as finding how life's priorities.

As we begin to celebrate Advent this year, may God help you find your rest.