On April 15, 2019, much of the world mourned as it watched Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris burn uncontrollably for eight hours into the night. Constructed over 860 years ago and having weathered such turmoil as the French Revolution and two world wars, the cathedral symbolized for many Christians a place of hope and heritage. Yet beyond its religious connotation, Notre Dame was known as the greatest example of French Gothic architecture and attracted over 12 million visitors annually. So while no deaths or serious injuries were reported, many wept and mourned as if a living being had been taken from them in the most ghastly and tragic of circumstances.

A church in disrepair

In the days following the devastating fire, some of the richest people in Europe vowed to give millions of dollars toward the church’s restoration. Yet, as Time magazine alluded to in a recent article, extensive renovation had been needed long before to prevent the type of tragedy that ultimately occurred. Much of the stone building needed to be replaced, while natural erosion along with pollution had led to water leaks in the spire. Other compounding issues had inevitably led to the weakening of the beams of five hundred oak trees that created the cathedral’s roof. As a whole, the people closest to the cathedral knew it was in desperate need of attention and care.

Tending to the soul

God takes rest and restoration of the human body and spirit very seriously. He went so far to command his people to take sabbath in the Ten Commandments. Jesus reflected perfect rest while traveling in his ministry, and he was quick to remind his followers that sabbath was created for humanity (and not the other way around). We have a tendency to view rest as an unnecessary burden but, in order to do God’s will, we must be willing to allow God and others to care for us.

Question of the day: What are the ways you experience true rest?
Focal scriptures: Mark 6:7-13; Exodus 18:13-24; Matthew 11:28-30

For a complete lesson on this topic visit LinC.