Last night when we were reflecting on rest and what it really means I was struck by what Jesus said in Matthew 11:25. Specifically the fact that the father hides his secrets from those who think they are wise but shows these same secrets to those who follow him in childlike humility. He goes on to say int verse 28 that all who are weak and heavy laden can come to Him and He will give them the rest they need.

What I did was make the connection between childlike faith and finding rest in Jesus. If we come to Him with that open faith of a child trusting in the fact that He will be with us and guide, then no matter what is happening or where we are He will give us rest deep in our souls. I want that kind of rest and peace and to receive it I need to have a real childlike faith.

This reminds of the account of Mary and Martha. Comments on this are many but there is something specific in Jesus reply to Martha that really impacted me and relates to this call for childlike faith. When Martha complains to Jesus that Mary is not helping her (Luke 10:38-42) Jesus reply is simple yet difficult. He says: "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about." Here Jesus lauds Mary for her childlike adoration of Him to the exclusion of Mary and the housework. That is what we need total devotion to Christ in all we do. He says that it is the one and only thing worth being concerned about.

I believe it is in this place that we can find true rest. It is so simple yet so hard because, I believe, it flies in the face of what we perceive as societies norms. We are called to constantly try to achieve and Jesus says trust in me, I will give you rest and then accomplish all of my purposes for your life. This is where I want to live.