Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Rest (01/17/13)
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TITLE: Rest for the Tickertape | Previous Challenge Entry
By Francie Snell
01/23/13 -
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It first appeared as a small blur in the rear view mirror. My husband Paul and I were on one of our many road trips to wherever our work was taking us, and it was my turn to drive. Within minutes, the blur turned into a car quickly closing the distance between us. I checked the speedometer. As usual, I had set the car on cruise control, just over the posted speed limit. A few minutes more and the other car was on our tail just feet away from contact.
“Check this guy out!” I exclaimed incredulously, eyeing the car in the mirror. Paul turned around to look back at the car as it quickly maneuvered into the oncoming lane. It flew past us as if we were standing still. Then, it cut back into our lane with its’ rear bumper missing us by a few feet. Startled, I blurted out “What the heck!”, then with an angry growl, “Why are people in such a hurry?” as the car sped off ahead of us.
“They must be having a baby” Paul quipped with sarcasm. I shook my head indignant and said, “I don’t get it.” However, maybe, I really do.
Before long, the car became a blur in the distance ahead of us, as it had first appeared.
Years ago, I was a lot like that reckless driver. I would frequently follow other cars a bit too closely, zipping in and out of traffic, hitting the gas, making it to the red light just moments before the person I had just cut off. Then, we would both sit waiting for the green light.
I always seemed to have an inexplicable sense of urgency when trying to get from point A to point B. I did not yet understand that God did things in His own time, and I was not required to be in such a hurry to where He was taking me.
Now, I have acquired a great respect for speed limits and genteel driving etiquette. Perhaps I cause a great irritation to the aspiring Mario Andretti’s of the world who can never get anywhere fast enough. Even so, I set my speed on cruise control getting to wherever I am going, at the Lord’s appointed time.
My bad driving habits were one area the Lord has done a work in my life, but He is not done with me yet. May I share another area of my character He is patiently shaping?
On most mornings, I wake up under warm flannel bed sheets with my mind already running with thoughts. A list of self- inflicted “honey do’s” are randomly clicking through my brain like a ticker tape at the New York Stock Exchange.
Make the coffee…feed the cat…make the bed…start the laundry…start my computer…put out the cat …make breakfast…take my blood pressure medicine...spend time with the Lord…write…
By the time I eventually roll out of bed, I am completely exhausted.
When I make my first steps down the stairs into the living room, I notice the dust on the coffee table. I dutifully include dusting to my agenda. The day goes by with the ticker tape clicking in my mind with more and more activities added to the never-ending list. I scurry through the day trying to accomplish everything, but seldom does that ever happen. But, who is keeping track? Me.
When I finally find time to spend with the Lord, I find I had placed Him far too low on my agenda. I kick myself, realizing once again, the most important thing I could have done, I have not. The laundry is done and the table dusted, however, what about the Lord?
“Come to Me, all you 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. Mat. 11:28&29 (NKJV).
I find there is no peace without the Lord first on any list. The REST He is so willing to give, He will give me when I go to Him, preferably, before rolling out of bed.
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The transition was a tad rocky from the car to the bed. It might have more impact if you just stick to one topic since we have so few words to use.
Though, I think your second part and some great points as well and really fit the topic. It's almost ironic how we worry and wonder and want rest so desperately that we may not think we have time to stop and pray but when we do just that, like you said God provides us with the rest we need so desperately. You did a nice job on this piece.
Thank you.
God bless~
His burden is easy and His yolk is light--sweet rest.