It's great to be back with you after my summer leave, which included a great week away in Dorset....and lots of views of the sea!

On return I've been looking at the water photos you've been sending through, and in some there's been the theme of taking time out alongside still waters. 

Claire M referenced a hymn verse with her photo which paints a picture of Jesus taking time out in stillness to share his heart with his Father. 

'Oh Sabbath rest by Galilee
Oh calm of hills above
Where Jesus knelt
to share with thee
The silence of eternity
Interpreted by love' *

If getting away to take time out (even as far as the local river bank) seems impossible, then I offer the experience of Suzanna Wesley, a parent of 19 children. Her family knew that when she put her apron over her head, she was not to be disturbed, as she was taking time out and praying. (She was an awesome theologian whose letters to her sons were a vital foundation of their work)

I wonder what your modern equivalent of an 'apron over your head' could be so you can take time out and establishing a space of rest and peace. It might be turning off the notifications or some apps on your phone; refusing to move until you've drunk a whole cup of tea; standing still and watching the sun set, or finding a tree or some calm water. 

I also offer these words, from someone who was led by still waters many centuries ago:

'The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;
he restores my soul' **

Blessings in Christ 
Sera

*From 'Dear Lord and Father of Mankind'
** Psalm 23:1-3 NRSV