Edification - Pausing with Jesus: Finding Rest in His Presence

Friends, have you ever had a moment when Scripture stops you in your tracks and changes how you see your faith? That happened to me recently while reading about Lazarus in John 12:1–3. I was caught up in my usual rush—planning, serving, trying to be a “good Christian”—when I came across Lazarus, not striving or performing, but simply reclining at the table with Jesus. This man, brought back from death, wasn’t hustling to prove his gratitude. He was just there, resting in the presence of the One who gave him life. That image hit me hard: Jesus wants my heart, not my hurry.

I hadn’t thought about pausing before. I was so used to measuring my faith by what I did—how many prayers I said, how much I served—that I forgot to just be with God. Reading about Lazarus felt like God whispering, “Slow down. Sit with Me.” It was a wake-up call to stop chasing approval and start resting in His love. That moment shifted something in me, like a deep breath after running too long.

Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28–30 (NIV) echo this truth: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Isn’t that beautiful? Jesus doesn’t demand our performance—He offers rest. He invites us to pause, to learn from His gentle heart, and to find a lightness that comes from being with Him.

I think of Mary, too, in Luke 10:38–42, sitting at Jesus’ feet while Martha buzzed with tasks. Jesus called Mary’s choice the “better part”—not because serving is wrong, but because His presence is the source of everything we do. Pausing with Jesus isn’t lazy; it’s trusting that His grace is enough. It’s letting Him carry the weight we’re not meant to bear.

Here’s a simple way to start: take five minutes today to pause. Find a quiet spot, maybe with a cup of tea or by a window, and just sit with Jesus. Whisper, “I’m here, Lord,” and let His presence fill you. No need to perform—just rest. I tried this after reading about Lazarus, and it felt like coming home, like God was reminding me I’m loved just as I am.

Friends, you don’t have to earn Jesus’ love—it’s already yours. Pause today, like Lazarus at the table, and let His presence be your rest. Share your moment of pause in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re finding peace with Jesus!

A Prayer for Pause
Lord, You are our rest and refuge. Help us pause in Your presence, trusting Your grace over our efforts. Teach us to sit with You, finding peace in Your love. Let our hearts rest in You, bearing fruit for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.