I’m the first to admit that I often don’t practice what I preach. At The Upper Room, we talk a lot about the importance of rest as a spiritual discipline. But how often do I actually practice it? If I’m honest, hardly at all.
Recently, I was forced to rest. COVID hit my family, canceling our spring break plans and sending us into isolation. When it was my turn to isolate, I decided I wouldn’t “soldier on” and try to work or be what we usually call productive. Instead, I chose to take care of my body. To my surprise, those days were some of the most restorative I’ve had in years. I read, watched old TV shows, slept, and let others care for me. As the primary caretaker in my family, receiving care felt like a gift.
Jesus himself modeled a lifestyle that valued the rhythm of rest. Throughout the Gospels, he withdraws from the crowds to pray, to listen, and to be renewed in the presence of God. And he promises us this gift of rest as well:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, NRSVUE).
Who among us isn’t weary at times or who doesn’t carry heavy burdens? During this Easter season and beyond, I’m intentionally trying to carve out more space for rest.
Through our ministries, The Upper Room extends this gift of rest to people around the world—offering daily moments of prayer, reflection, and renewal. Thank you for being part of our community and for the many ways you help make this possible. And perhaps the invitation is for you as well—to pause, breathe, and receive the rest Christ offers you.
Nicole Curtis serves as Director of Fund Development for The Upper Room.
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