Pause that Refreshes

Coke had an advertising campaign a few years ago that depicted this drink as "the pause that refreshes". Yesterday, as I was driving through the neighborhood, I saw a sight that exemplified that slogan much better than Coke could.

The temperature was well into the 90s, with not a breath of air stirring for relief from the heat. A lady was walking her large black dog, and he was taking "the pause that refreshes". What a picture to see! They had walked by a yard where the sprinkler system was delivering a delightful fine mist of a spray for the grass. This canine plopped himself right down in the middle of the cooling spray, leashed to his mistress, not moving a muscle! I am sure it was just as tempting for the lady, but she held back for one reason or another. Would she be embarrassed to take that particular pause? Or perhaps it would seem too childlike or out of keeping with her status. I do not know the reason she did not immerse herself in that joyful moment, but I wondered if there was a parallel in my spiritual life.

Do I accept each pause of refreshment that God offers to me? He gives me His Word and 24 hours each day to read it. He gives me great beauty in the nature I enjoy so much. He offers me love of family and affection from pets. He offers His mercy, time and time again. He has provided sisters and brothers in Christ with whom to share my faith.

Do I take the time to read His Word, look outside and smell the roses, accept His forgiveness, and interact in His love with my brothers and sisters in Christ? All of these are spiritual pauses freely and constantly given by God, yet often I ignore them.

Lord, don't let me wait for the unbearable "heat" of life to compel me to take God-given pauses. I want, and need, to take them each and every day of my life.

If you're interested, there is more information about:
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Contributed by Marion Smith: noles65@aol.com Comments/Feedback are welcome.