Reflection, March 4, 2007

Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of March 4, 2007

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok. http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.htm

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Blessed rest with Jesus

Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."
Matthew 11:28 (NRSV)

Certainly Jesus understands our needs for rest. He invites all of us to enter his rest through some of the most cherished words in the Scriptures. A spiritually empowering meditation can be experienced through the ancient, cherished practice called "lectio divina." "Lectio," as it is more commonly called, is a simple form of holy reading. Sacred words are slowly read with pauses of silence. Read these words again and again until a word or phrase lingers in your heart. Simply breathe with it and let it become the prayer of your heart. "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28, NRSV).

Are you feeling tired today? Is there some inner burden that is exhausting you? Can you share that sense of burden with God? Consider writing down your feelings and whatever comes to mind in the silence. List your heavy loads and concerns. Ask God for rest and strength for the day.

God, help us come into your blessed rest. Carry our burdens today. Amen.