“Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” Mark 6:31

Being a reflective learner has made me intentional about rest for the first time in my life.

I just got back from the Thanksgiving holiday where my goal was to enjoy time with God in prayer, with my family and rest. This Thanksgiving, I embraced a new perspective: making prayer and rest my priorities. It wasn't just about self-care; it was a conscious effort to safeguard the things and people I hold dear. I aimed to protect my passion and love for healthcare, and chaplaincy, with prayer and rest was my weapon of choice. The results were beyond what I had imagined as I felt a sense of zeal and readiness when I returned to the hospital. Please notice that I no longer use the word work for what I do as a healthcare chaplain.

My energy was up and my attitude toward serving patients and staff was that of a friend

who had made contact after years apart. I danced through the hallways and helped patients and staff when possible. I volunteered to get the 12 boxes of Bible from my hospital to the school academic area of the other hospital and I did not care if it was raining. I felt strong and rested after being with patients and school, so I gladly loaded all the boxes while being rained on with the help of a cart that broke inside the elevator. Its wheel got stuck in between the floor and the elevator but because I was present and in the moment, I was able to easily get the cart out. I feel more alive, and this is also evident in the number of patients I’ve seen this morning. I’ve already seen 6 and we still have half a day left.

I understand that this may not last, but I will ride this wave of rest until further notice. It

has rejuvenated my prayer life, creativity, and energy in a God-centered way. This is my second career, and my goal is to ensure that I am intentionally scheduling prayer and rest so that my energy, focus, and inspiration will stay high in service to my God and the hospital. 'Tis the season to be jolly and prayer and rest allow me to be. I hope you are inspired to do the same.