Rest for Your Soul
Comments(0) Jeremiah 6:16; “Thus says The Lord; ‘Stand by the ways and see and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; and you will find rest for your souls.”
It is April 15th and I’m writing this article as we are sheltered-in-place and the world is facing the uncertainties associated with Covid-19; if there was ever a time we needed “rest for our souls”, I believe it is now. Jeremiah 6:16 was my theme verse for my most recent trip to Israel and during that time I believe I was able to uncover a small part of the mystery of the “ancient paths”.
Originally, I was scheduled to be in Israel from February 25th – March 27th to host three different groups from Pittsburgh. We were able to successfully complete two of the trips but had to cancel the last one as the country began to shut down with the pandemic increasing across the globe. With the weight of the responsibility of the trips and all the travelers and all the what-ifs; I must confess, I think I failed my faith test (aren’t we glad that He grades on the curve?).
It was during one of those moments as we entered Jerusalem at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 13th that I received some insight into the ancient paths and rest for my soul. On the bus, approaching our hotel, I was sovereignly hit with the incredible Shalom-peace of God; wasn’t looking for it, it just unexpectantly showed up. Before dinner, reflecting on what happened; I believe He showed me that one of the ancient paths that brings rest and peace is Shabbat. We had entered the Holy City at the beginning of Shabbat. The fast-paced activities of the world today is diametrically opposed to rest and peace; at the beginning God had a plan to counteract the turmoil of day to day life. His plan; one day out of seven to slow down, spend time with family, focus on Him and rest.
There are many more ancient paths to discover and walk in; but in the meantime; may His Shalom Peace give you rest for your soul.