Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Take a break!

(This week's column is written by Aaron Gravett)

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 

Even though we’re in the throes of summer, and many of our kids are off for summer break, there’s usually no break for adults. Some seem to manage a vacation, while others have so many responsibilities that they can’t even seem to carve out a few days to do this. The daily grind of jobs, maybe second jobs, maybe third jobs and many other responsibilities seem to pull us from all directions, and we end up feeling tired, frustrated and frazzled to the point that we just wanna throw up our hands and let the bill collector take everything. This frustration causes stress, high blood pressure, stomach issues and a host of other medical problems. So, what’s the answer to the daily grind of this dog-eat-dog world?

The answer is, you’re gonna have to take a break! If you don’t take a break, your body will break for you and force you to do it. Sometimes your mind just shuts down, and you find yourself very lethargic and not motivated to do anything except laying in a cool, dark room.

Jesus Christ, when he was on earth did a lot of ministry and could be very, very busy, but he took breaks. He got away from the crowd and it was just Him and the Father in prayer to rest. In those moments the Father poured more strength into him for the things he was called to do. We are no different; we need to do the same.  

If at all possible, and I mean, make it a point to cut one day a week for yourself not to have any tasks to do. It is a time to rest the mind and body - to let Christ strengthen the heart, soul and spirit. Spend it with your loved ones, just being. Not being this or that but just being and enjoying each other; if you can get away together to do something fun or relaxing, just do it. The point is you have to make a concentrated effort to do it otherwise days will come and days will go and you’ll keep being frustrated and stressed.

Instead, choose to do this – to take a break – and let the peace of God, the rest of Christ, and the strength of the Holy Spirit rejuvenate you not only for the next day, but for life!