Hi Church! This Sunday we welcome our Senior Pastor Marc Rader back from a few weeks of annual leave. While lockdown leave isn’t all that exciting, having times of rest is important for all of us. We’re designed for cycles of rest and work – to be engaged in purposeful work yet find rejuvenation in rest.

The first thing God calls ‘holy’ is the sabbath day in Genesis 2:3 and the command to spend time resting in relationship with God is one of the 10 Commandments (Exodus 20:8). It seems pretty important to God!

While we know the value of rest for our physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing, it can be difficult during lockdowns, working from home, cancelled travel plans and home schooling. However, Jesus invites us into a new type of rest, a continual one - where we spend time with him, exchanging our burdens for his and finding comfort, rejuvenation, and restoration in his presence.

If you’re feeling tired, worried or stressed during this season, let me remind you from the promises of Jesus in Matthew 11. Jesus has his arm around your shoulder and is helping you keep step in time with him. He holds you and will never let you go.

Roxane Lawler | Associate Pastor

28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

Matthew 11:28-30