Rest, Relaxation, and Renewal

As we completed our school year in May, I was feeling desperately in need of a break. I was weary, drained, and burned out. I tearfully told my husband that I wasn't even sure I wanted to homeschool anymore. I'm thankful that he quietly listened to my heart and allowed me to vent, while all the while I know he was praying that God would renew my vision and refresh my heart.

While I was well-acquainted with many of the emotions I was feeling (I've come to expect them near the end of each school year), I was a bit surprised by the depth of my frustration. I shouldn't be surprised, though, that God always gives us what we need. He'd given me exactly what I'd needed to finish our school year strong. It wasn't till after we were "done" that I finally let down...and I view this as His grace to me. He'd empowered me with His strength to keep on keeping on. And finally, with the official school year behind us, I sensed Him telling me, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Matthew 11:28-29

Though this summer has often been busier than I'd like, God has used the break from routine to renew my heart, my mind, and my strength. I have, indeed, found rest for my soul. This renewal came not from a change in circumstances, but a change in heart. God has graciously revealed my sinfulness...my self-centeredness that insists on my desires, my plans, my goals. As I've gotten alone with Him throughout these summer months, He's gently rebuked me and whispered in my ear, "My child, stop striving and know that I am God." How often I let my schedule and busyness dictate my time with Him! Yet He longs for me to drop my consumption with the stuff of life and embrace the "one thing that is necessary." He's used these months to do a bit of heart surgery; to renew my vision and my hope.

Two months ago I was feeling empty. God has taken the emptiness and filled me with Himself. Two months ago I was feeling overwhelmed, incapable, and weak. He's sent me countless reminders of His all-sufficiency, faithfulness, and strength. Two months ago I was feeling exhausted. He's been faithful to provide needed rest through time with Him in His Word. He's also provided rest, relaxation, and renewal through countless fun times with my precious family and friends (more on that in a later post).

I'm thankful that this summer vacation has been so much more than a simple break from routine. It's been an extended personal retreat that has brought about the rest, relaxation, and renewal that I was so desperately craving.

And yes, I'm eagerly anticipating our 7th year of homeschooling!