By Lois Hewitt

Holy Wednesday!  The countdown continues. Many historical accounts elude to the fact that this was a fairly quiet day for Jesus. He probably rested and took time with His disciples.

He knew what the next two days would bring, so He rested with the ones He loved.

What a beautiful example for us to live by.  Even in the midst of choas, sometimes we need to push back and breathe for a moment.

Others may not like that you do that.  But you need to take care of yourself.  Chaos has a way of always existing.  Chaos doesn’t worry that it might be extinguished. We live in a world that thrives on chaos, it is up to our own selves to stop the bus, as it where, and get off the ride.

I have discussed the fact a few times that Jesus was often going off alone to pray and rest.  The crowds never went away but He did.

Going away did not mean that He didn’t care or that He was being selfish.  Quite the contrary, it’s because He rested and prayed that He was better able to meet the needs of those around Him.

So when your life seems like an out-of-control circus, give yourself permission to stop, pray and breathe.  It will change everything. 

And do not forget to take time with those you love.  Jesus knew He would be leaving very soon and wanted to spend just a little more time with this most special to Him.

Jesus is the example we, as His followers, should follow.  He was never afraid to show up and do the work.  But He also knew the importance of a space in time that was quiet and nurturing.

On this Holy Wednesday, just days before the resurrection, take a moment or two (or more) to quiet your mind, calm your body, allow oxygen into and out of your longs and say a prayer of thanksgiving.  This act alone may just fortify you to keep hanging in there.

Peace be with you this Holy day and always, my friend.