Each Friday my writing stems from a word prompt. Five minutes, one word prompt. The prompt this week is … Rush.

I’m not one to rush, in fact, I much rather enjoy moving at a slower pace. It just feels right and comforting in some way. I get up (usually) at 5AM just to avoid having to rush.

We seem to have become a society who balances more plates than humanly possible, rushing ourselves and our children from one task or activity to another. People seem to be driving at a frenetic speed only to have to come to a stop for the next red traffic light.

Rushing around is worn like a badge of honor which signifies we are productive or capable. Yet in our rushing, we are robbing ourselves of being present in the current moment.

In missing the moment, this moment, we also miss what God has for us in the present moment.

The funny thing about this is – God hardly ever seems to rush. He seems to specialize in the slow. He created time and is sovereign over time. He takes His time.

In following His Father’s example, Jesus also did not rush about. He took His time in getting to Lazarus, leaving him in the tomb for several days much to his sisters’ dismay. Jesus often slowed down to withdraw and be alone in prayer with His Father.

When we stop the rush in our lives, we slow down to allow room for God to speak and work in our lives. We come to appreciate His love, grace, and mercy because we are better able to notice the way He is leading us in our journey.

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28-30, MSG)

Let’s stop the rush,
and learn how to take a real rest.