Well, I saw my first robin today. He/she was sitting in our backyard, on a tree branch, and looked like he/she was ready for another season of nest building, rearing a family and picking around the landscape for fat, juicy worms. Our little granddaughter just loves birds and rejoices each time she encounters them on her daily walks. She loves nature and looking at her books and pictures of every living thing. Incredible how kids learn!
I learned something about robins today that I did not know. Robins are hard workers, as are most birds. Each member of the pair makes between five hundred and six hundred flights to ferry sticks, moss and mud to the nest construction site. The birds work five or six, twelve hour days, to complete the job. Feeding the nestlings takes even more effort: each baby may eat fourteen feet of worms a day. No time for a break! These little birds are focused and committed to the task, they go the course to finish the tasks given them.
It reminds me of our Christian walk. The Apostle Paul said to the Thessalonians, so long ago, “And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good” (1 Thessalonians 3:13 NIV). I like the way the NRSV puts it, “brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right.” Like robins, as we do the tasks laid out before us it is natural at points to “be weary.” We need time to recharge, to refocus and to empower ourselves for the journey.
I find taking time to mediate, to read and mull over God’s word, helps me recharge and lighten my load and perspective.
I find watching or reading something humorous, also gives me a lift. As the Bible says, “Laughter is good medicine” (Proverbs 17:22 KJV).
I find taking regular breaks is encouraging in helping find a balance between wholeness and helping. Going for a walk, playing an instrument, doing a hobby like crafts or painting, cooking, etc. It’s an individual choice.
Try and strike a healthy balance in your sleep and diet.
I find self-talk is important, to focus on the positive things that I encounter and to receive them as gifts from God. As James says, "Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens (James 1:17 ESV). Even in the tough times, as hard as it is, try and celebrate God’s goodness.
If you have a close friend you can share with, connect. With a trusted individual, share what is on your heart. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times…”
Take holidays. Jesus did. He served and then He stepped back. We all need times where we “get away" from the "norm” and seek a setting where we can recharge.
Listen to music that refreshes your soul. I have one CD entitled “Hymns Triumphant.” It works for me. Connect to Christ centred music that will help you relax and refocus.
These are just a few suggestions. There are many more. I would love to hear from you as to how you relax.
As our little red breasted friends hop around our yards, may it help us to remember we all need time to recharge on our journeys. God bless you and take time to be good to yourself!
Love,
Pastor Ralph.
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