‘It’s a good kind of tired.’ Surely you’ve experienced it; what makes bone-weary fatigue something to cheer about? Good memories, a sense of purpose, reward? But what about in the spiritual sense?
Obedience comes to mind. I can’t even imagine the fatigue Jesus experienced after hours of ministry in less than ideal conditions. The crowds pressing in…the pervasive brokenness…disciples watching miracle after miracle and still not understanding who He was. Oh, and all that walking in sandals without memory foam!
Exhausted Jesus never departed to rest and reflect on what He had received; obedience to the mission at hand was his prime motive for seeking his Father.
And us? At 68, fatigue happens a lot and the temptation to avoid it is real! Accepting assignments that will clearly produce exhaustion is often a real test of my own obedience. I watched as well some young parents this weekend, following after every step of their active toddlers; it would have been a lot easier to stay home, but they know all that mileage will eventually lead to their whole family knowing Christ.
Pressing forward toward the Prize that awaits us requires our trust, focus, and dependence on the One who holds us. Eugene Peterson beautifully describes this journey, A Long Obedience in the Same Direction. Press forward!
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