chanting and then... macchiatos and rest

Good morning from Ethiopia!

This morning started out with the familiarity I have come to love. Awakened by the chanting reminded me of what was to come... the famous Ethiopian macchiato! 

As I shared in my last blog, I am trying out a hotel in a different part of the city. It feels like I am in a different place - I am used to being in the busy hustle and bustle of the capital city, but this place has a quaint and quiet little sitting area outside. The fresh air is a welcome change from the "in the city" smog, and I am surrounded by a garden of green and rich colors of red, orange, and purple flowering plants and bushes. The birds are chirping, there is a gentle breeze, and there is no one in site... just the voice of the man preaching from what seems like a mountaintop for all the city to hear.

I never really considered this being a vacation... but it sure seems like one at this moment. 

Sitting here... reminds me of the importance of rest. Our bodies, our minds - they need a break. God created the days. Then He rested. He provides that for us also. If you are anything like me, it is a thought that often gets shoved aside as the busyness of life comes at us. And when we let the busyness settle in, it distracts us from God and the gift He gave to us - rest.

May each of us rest in Him today and always.