On Rest

So lately I being thinking about rest. Let's see if I can articulate my thoughts in a meaningful way.

The main question I have is where is the balance between doing the work you have and taking the time you need to rest?

Being here there is a lot to do. Generally Monday through Friday I am up by 8AM at the latest and I work or have things to do all day till dinner and sometimes after. I don't usually go to bed later than 11 or midnight but it is often a long day.

Obviously missions work is work and there are hard things and things that take a long time. But sometimes I feel like as Christians and missionaries we have to work that much harder. Isn't God calling us to more than the standard 9-5 job? But isn't also important to get the rest you need so burnout doesn't occur? I am here because many people have supported me with prayer and money. If I am lazy I am not just being stupid I am letting down my supporters in a way. Where's the line?

I'll be honest I sleep a lot. I was a distance runner in college and making sure I had enough energy for practice was paramount. I slept more than most of my classmates. I don't sleep as much as college but I'm always aware of how I'm feeling. If I need a nap I'll take it (time-permitting).

I bring this up because this weekend I get to go on safari for a couple days. Its going to be fun and given that over the last few weeks I have bound in the ballpark of about 6,000 curriculum for Thrive with 5 other interns I think I deserve it but thoughts do nag at times. Its almost like "I need to do more, before I can relax."

In conclusion I think God has me here to learn, grow and work. I have been doing all three. I can only do the work God has set before me no more, no less. If I don't get rest I will do the work in a sub-par way and everything here is based on excellence. May I encourage you to do the work set before you today. When you are done, take a nap, watch TV, chill with your family. Just do it all in the name of Jesus.

Peace and Blessings.