No warning. No texts going through. No apps tracking my walk. No way to communicate.
I ran a couple of errands before finally making it home to my computer to send a message another way. But during that window of silence, my poor sister had a full search-and-rescue operation underway. She had even enlisted my friend to drive around to look for me.
All because my phone had become overloaded and simply stopped functioning.
After deleting photos and videos and freeing up some space, I was finally able to make a call again.
Whew.
As frustrating as that moment was, it also felt like a quiet lesson wrapped inside an ordinary day.
When something is overloaded, it tends to shut down.
Step away with Jesus
And maybe that’s exactly why Jesus gave us the example of stepping away. Of going somewhere quiet to pray. To rest. To breathe.
On the heels of busy graduation celebrations, family illness, demanding schedules, emotional strain and heartbreak, and the constant noise of everyday life, perhaps many of us are carrying more than we were meant to carry alone.
Scripture tells us that Jesus invited His disciples to withdraw from the crowds and rest because they were so busy they “did not even have time to eat.” (Mark 6:31)
What grace in His call to come and rest.
What kindness in the heart of our Savior.
He also extends that same invitation to us:
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” — Matthew 11:28–30 (ESV)
Jesus didn’t just teach rest — He modeled it.
He rose early to pray in solitude.
He withdrew to quiet places.
He climbed mountains to pray.
He spent entire nights in communion with the Father before important decisions.
Make room for rest
Again and again, Scripture shows us that private, unhurried time with God is not optional for spiritual health. It is necessary.
So perhaps this week, we can follow His example.
Turn off the phone for a little while.
Step away from the noise.
Take a walk.
Sit quietly with the Lord.
Get some rest.
Make space for both rest and quiet reflection, trusting that in the stillness, God will faithfully restore not only your weary body, but your soul as well.
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