Solomon in all of his wisdom, opportunity, and power, wrote this admonition to those coming after him who would seek knowledge: "But beyond these [wise teachings], my son, be warned: there is no end to the making of many books, and much study wearies the body" (Ecclesiastes 12:12, CSB). As someone who does quite a bit of studying, researching, and thinking, I very much resonate with this sentiment. The study of God's Word and paying attention to the world around us are both noble, vital tasks to being the people God made us to be, no doubt. But it's also exhausting.

Enter summer.

It's a time to do a lot of "RE's." RElax. REcreate. REstore. REvitalize. REnew. We all need moments or even extended seasons for this God-honoring activity...and often we must intentionally mark off the time and space for it. Working from a place of rest is good, while the other way around drains our life and sometimes our humanity.

Jesus needed time away. If we're following in His footsteps, we should take time away, too. So in the interest of actively following His pattern, I'm keeping my article short this month, especially as I prepare to head off on a vacation with my family. Instead of more of my words and musings, here's a part of Jesus' story:

"Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, [Jesus] got up, went out, and made His way to a deserted place; and there He was praying. Simon and his companions searched for Him, and when they found Him they said, 'Everyone is looking for You.' And He said to them, 'Let’s go on to the neighboring villages so that I may preach there too. This is why I have come.'" (Mark 1:35-39, CSB).Β 

Notice how Jesus doesn't apologize for not being available to those who sought Him. He was spending time away with His Father, and being purposely "unavailable" for a specified time can be empowering and life-giving.

I am very grateful to everyone in my Immanuel family who actively support my well-being and the health of my family. We pray that you also have time for relaxation and renewal during this summer, as we seek these things for ourselves. I am confident that when your aim is to get away, or even specifically because you're getting away from your normal patterns for a while, you'll discover the Kingdom wherever you go, because...

Adventure is out there!
Pastor Aaron