Why would you ever complain, O Jacob, or, whine, Israel, saying, “God has lost track of me. He doesn’t care what happens to me”? Don’t you know anything? Haven’t you been listening? God doesn’t come and go. God lasts. He’s Creator of all you can see or imagine. He doesn’t get tired out, doesn’t pause to catch his breath. And he knows everything, inside and out. He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts. For even young people tire and drop out, young folk in their prime stumble and fall. But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, They run and don’t get tired, they walk and don’t lag behind. Isaiah 40: 27-31 The Message I desperately want fresh strength like this. Don't you? I confess my life has been largely about pursuing strength by working hard to achieve things that matter. And some good has come of it. But honestly, it's left me bone weary. This Lent I am seeking refreshment. In this passage it sounds like refreshment comes in waiting.

To practice the simple discipline of pausing:

Find a comfortable spot,
Let what comes, come,
Enjoy.

O Lord who does not count on my achievements to matter, meet me in pausing. Amen.

Pause