The meaning of the parable in this Sunday’s Gospel reading is set out directly for us: “Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary” (Lk 18:1). How often do we become weary? Weary of prayer, weary of our jobs and responsibilities, weary of our problems and illnesses? The answer for me is too often. How many times have I found myself with heavy eyelids while sitting with Jesus in the quiet of the adoration chapel? Or how many times have I put off my night prayers until I am so tired that when my head hits the pillow I am nearly asleep already? Perhaps I need more sleep, and to not push myself so hard throughout the day. Perhaps I need to rest in the Lord.
“It is vain for you to rise early
and put off your rest at night,
To eat bread earned by hard toil—
all this God gives to his beloved in sleep.”~Psalm 127:2
Psalm 37 tells us to “rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him” (37:7). Isaiah proclaims: “They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint” (Isa 40:31). Jesus Himself offers us His rest: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light (Matt 11:28-30).”
Why do so many of us find it hard to rest in the Lord? Perhaps it’s the sin of pride prodding us to continue our work; that if we do not, nothing will get done. Maybe we strive for perfection instead of excellence, causing us to lose our peace and work ourselves ragged. Let’s consider reclaiming this Sunday, making it a day of resting in the Lord. A day without restless work. Lord, grant us the grace to rest in You each day.
Lord Jesus, I’m sorry for the times when I have worked myself beyond what You have asked of me. Help me to rest in You, trust in You, place my burdens on You, and to take up Your yolk instead of my own.