As mentioned in our January post, in this 50th year of Teleios we are exploring the concept of Jubilee. Over the coming months, Art, Shawn, board members and other members of the Teleios community will be sharing their thoughts on the subject. Read Shawn's words below.
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A big part of Jubilee is rest. This question from Matthew seems appropriate, especially today.
“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.” (Matt 11:28-30)
Are you tired? If your life is anything like mine, the answer is “Yes!”
What do you do when you’re tired? The fact that that’s the question could be part of the problem. Did you see it? What do you DO when you are tired? We are so inclined to “do.” What if we were to attempt to not do anything? The invitation of Jesus in Matthew 11 appears to be about something beyond doing; it’s something deeper. What if the invitation of Jesus is to be? The Psalmist seems to think so...
“Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) I like the translation from the NASB even better, “Cease striving and know that I am God.” Maybe that’s what a lot of our tiredness is the result of--striving.
The concept of jubilee appears to offer something beyond doing. Maybe the offer is stillness. If stillness is not a regular practice for you, I might suggest trying it today for five minutes. We have the opportunity today to join the Psalmist and Jesus in their stillness.
- Shawn
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*If this post was an encouragement to you, Lent begins this coming Wednesday. I will be posting periodically throughout Lent on Matthew 11, specifically the themes of rest and repentance. I am calling it, True R&R. Hope you join in.