Dear New Life,

You may not know this about me, but I spent a lot of time in my youth as a percussionist, including a good deal of time behind a drum set for our worship services. My co-workers will often hear me tapping out rhythms almost unconsciously throughout the work day.

Rhythms are powerful. They can carry a song, but they can also impact our well-being. God grants us many rhythms in life, but one of the more significant ones is the rhythm of work and rest. Both are essential parts of how God made us.

In this particular community, many of us have been working very hard these last several weeks. Classes, work, family, home projects, relationships, and crisis management all take real time and effort.

Consider that the Lord celebrates your work and gave you the skill you possess, but He also gave you the joy of enjoying rest and the grace of needing it.

UofM students are gifted a few study days this week, which may afford them a brief break from their school schedules, but for those of you who don't have that break built into your schedule, I encourage you to lean into God's intention for you. Work AND rest. We are pretty good at work, but most of us struggle with rest. God granted you both as gifts, so go ahead. Open that second gift. Let's see what God will do for our hearts and souls as we celebrate His rest.

Joel VanderSchel, on Behalf of the Elder and Minister Team