Excerpt from Isaiah 40:28-31

"Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."

Reflection by Shaun Drefahl

Life can be exhausting. Recently I have gotten into the habit of waking up at 4:00 in the morning just so I can get things done before my calendar begins exerting its control over me. But then, on those days when things seem to be lining up nicely, too often I get an emergency phone call and all my plans go out the window.

I am always fascinated by how I react in those moments. Where do I find the energy to get through those times? Do I pray? Do I meditate? Or do I run to unhealthy food and other distractions,  "just until I'm through this?"  The theologian Paul Tillich said that everyone has faith, whether they see themselves as religious or not. Everyone becomes weary. Everyone experiences stress. Everyone has moments of confusion or anger. That is what it means to live in a world filled with brokenness. It is who (or what) I turn toward in those times of need that reveals where my faith is truly placed.

Some of the coping mechanisms we turn to might work in the short term but for the physical, mental, and spiritual health we require, we must turn to our inexhaustible God. Taking time to pray with words or by silently listening for God's still speaking voice can provide a peace and clarity no marathon of reality television could ever offer. God is here. God gives power to the faint and strengthens the powerless. For that, I am very thankful.

Prayer

Eternal God, let me know Isaiah's description of you deep in my heart. Help me to have my faith in you above all other things. Amen.

About the Author Shaun Drefahl is Pastor of Bainbridge Community United Church of Christ, in Bainbridge, Ohio.