Reading Psalm 23 in the Contemporary English Version brought these verses to life today:

²You let me rest in fields of green grass.
You lead me to streams of peaceful water,
³and you refresh my life.

On a trip out to the Dolly Sods of West Virginia, we had the opportunity to soak up a lot of beautiful scenery. This photo, taken from a bridge near Spruce Knob, was probably one of the most peaceful spots on the entire trip for me. I could have sat and listened to the water on the rocks for hours!

Later as we climbed around and enjoyed new vantage points from higher elevations, the stream became a glinting ribbon in the afternoon sun. Still beautiful. Still peaceful. Still.

I learned a long time ago that it’s hard to drink and run full tilt through life. While I am high energy and am always ready to take on something new, lately I’ve been learning this discipline called “waiting” and “resting.” I need these moments of recharging to be an effective chaplain, a good friend, a nurturing wife and mom.

The most refreshing drinks are the ones that are from a resting place. Stop. Drink it in. Let the refreshment seep into your bones.

What a God Gift!