Be gentle - April 11

Today’s Readings:  AM Psalms 95, 88; PM Psalm 27; Lam. 3:37-58; Heb. 4:1-16; Rom. 8:1-11

The reading from Hebrews mentions Sabbath for the living and eternal rest for those who have died. There is a level of emotional exhaustion that sets in each year during Holy Week around this time. And friends, this year has been more taxing than most. Fatigue is sinking into our bones. We are concerned for loved ones, for all those who struggle, and for our own well-being.

On this Holy Saturday, we are invited into a space of rest. I am reminded of waves in the ocean, a sequence of crests followed by troughs…and in the calmer, lower time of troughs, waves gather the energy needed before another peak escalates. Most muscles in our body function like that, too, in a cycle of flex and release. Scripture – especially lyrical compositions like the psalms – also have this texture of an emotional crescendo in tension with God or relationships with others, and then comes rest, or resolution, or peacefulness.

While the full cycle of our Holy Week is not yet complete, today is a day to be gentle upon yourself. Jesus has been through the range of emotions of Holy Week, and can empathize with all exhaustion you may feel. Receive God’s mercy and create a little space for emotional recovery, so that you can joyfully welcome our celebration of the risen Christ tomorrow morning.

— Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

  • When have you felt lost and despondent?

  • In what ways do you integrate Sabbath into your life?

    Daily Challenge

  • Sabbath means rest. Find a space of time today to practice Sabbath. If you share your home with others, invite them to participate in this holy rest, too. Pray that the different use of time will bring you a deeper level of refreshment.

Katherine Harper