"The long weekend."
For pastors, those words are often code for a multi-day marathon of sermon preparation, ministry events, Bible studies, worship services, and appointments. Rarely do they describe slipping away for a few days of renewal and rest.
But recently, some dear friends from Minnesota extended a Christ-like invitation to "come away" with them "to a quiet place and get some rest" (Mark 6:31). Although their lake cabin sits 6,189 miles from the shores of Galilee, it provided exactly what Jesus once offered His disciples. The long weekend away was a welcome gift.
As we enter the final stretch of summer, perhaps Jesus' invitation to "come away" has begun to fade beneath the growing volume of everyday life. The voice of your calendar is once again louder than the gentle rhythm of waves against the shore. The pace has quickened. The demands have multiplied. And you've quietly accepted busyness as the price of living faithfully.
But Jesus offers something better.
Even now, He invites you into His rest. He longs to lift the burden from your shoulders, quiet the noise within your soul, and replace your striving with His peace. His presence is not reserved for secluded lakesides or mountain retreats. It is available wherever you are.
Whether you're standing on a dock at the water's edge or sitting beneath the white glow of fluorescent lights, Jesus is there. And His invitation still stands:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28–29).
— Pastor Pete
For pastors, those words are often code for a multi-day marathon of sermon preparation, ministry events, Bible studies, worship services, and appointments. Rarely do they describe slipping away for a few days of renewal and rest.
But recently, some dear friends from Minnesota extended a Christ-like invitation to "come away" with them "to a quiet place and get some rest" (Mark 6:31). Although their lake cabin sits 6,189 miles from the shores of Galilee, it provided exactly what Jesus once offered His disciples. The long weekend away was a welcome gift.
As we enter the final stretch of summer, perhaps Jesus' invitation to "come away" has begun to fade beneath the growing volume of everyday life. The voice of your calendar is once again louder than the gentle rhythm of waves against the shore. The pace has quickened. The demands have multiplied. And you've quietly accepted busyness as the price of living faithfully.
But Jesus offers something better.
Even now, He invites you into His rest. He longs to lift the burden from your shoulders, quiet the noise within your soul, and replace your striving with His peace. His presence is not reserved for secluded lakesides or mountain retreats. It is available wherever you are.
Whether you're standing on a dock at the water's edge or sitting beneath the white glow of fluorescent lights, Jesus is there. And His invitation still stands:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28–29).
— Pastor Pete
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