Cuddles with grandchildren are the best! I’ve just had a cuddle with our youngest grandchild. Coming to me with outstretched arms, we sat on the couch, her body snuggled against mine while enjoying this special time together.
What treasured moments they are! We all know that young children are very mobile and easily distracted, wanting to climb off to go and play or explore. Each cuddle provides a time to rest, to have a break from our usual routines and focus on the precious young person sitting on our lap. How similar it is when we take time for our devotions, Bible reading and prayers.
These are opportunities to rest and take time to listen and hear the promises and lessons from God’s Word. Jesus says in Matthew 11:28 (NIV) Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. We all like to rest and know how it reinvigorates us. Note how Jesus beckons us to come to him. It does not sound like a reminder, more like an invitation. Jesus knows the challenges that face us each day. “Come”, says Jesus, “tell me about them, share them with me”. We can trust him. After all, Jesus took all our troubles, doubts, and fears to the cross. That is why we can rest.
The words of Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 11:28, have resonated with me over the last couple of years. With the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 and the ensuing lockdowns and restrictions, the heartfelt question was, “Oh dear Jesus, what are we going to do?” Some of the lockdowns were months long, others weeks or days. Initially, there was a flurry of cancelled events. For the first time, the 2020 LWV/T convention to be held at Shepparton, was cancelled, as were the Western and Wimmera Mallee Fellowship days. The Retreat program was also severely impacted. Despite the hard work of the committee in adapting their schedule to the ever-changing conditions over the last two years, the only Victorian Retreat was at Wangaratta with another abridged version held in Launceston, Tasmania. These were indeed burdens and worries.
Yet, Jesus says, “Come to me”. As we adapt to living with COVID, we are assured that our burdens are known. As an executive, we can confidently plan ahead. This year’s Convention on May 14 is at ‘Christ the Lord’ Seabrook. With the resignation of the Retreat Committee last year, the Retreat program is currently under review. Our Facebook page and Newsletter provide updates, articles, and contact information. In coming to Jesus, he refurbishes us and provides all our needs. How great is that!
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