Rest and Restoration

Jesus tells us in Matthew 11:28-30,

“Are you weary, carrying a heavy burden? Then come to me. I will refresh your life, for I am your oasis. Simply join your life with mine. Learn my ways, and you’ll discover that I’m gentle, humble, and easy to please. You will find refreshment and rest in me. For all that I require of you will be pleasant and easy to bear.”

Here at Black Diamond Camp, whether you are here on a retreat, or joining us for the summer season, all of us have a unique opportunity to meet Jesus and receive the everlasting water of life he offers us.

As our staff prepare for an incredible summer, it’s been on our hearts to really slow down before the new season. This was partially inspired from John Mark Comer’s, “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry but more importantly how Jesus lived in the public and private moments.

In the life of Jesus, it is clear after nearly every miracle, after all the crowds formed, after all the people asked for more, Jesus would retreat and rest in the wilderness.

Why does Jesus do this?

Jesus…being the only person to ever live perfectly, knew it would be essential to retreat because he would continue to have a personal and loving relationship with his Father. It was one of the biggest ways Jesus went against the grain of today’s rise and grind culture.

What does this mean for you?

I write this simply as an extension of Jesus’ invitation if anything, to join Jesus when he says, “come to me, all who are weary and burdened”. He continually offers all of us the same experience. A moment to rest amidst the chaos of this world with someone who has overcome the world.

Jesus is offering a water that doesn’t leave us thirsty for more. He offers us a new way to live freely. A new way of life where we can be refreshed and restored. A new way in which by slowing down, we are able to grow and progress more than we ever thought.

We continually pray this is what you experience when you not only come to camp, but also after when you enter back into the routines of life. We invite you in as not just partners, but brothers and sisters of Christ who get to grow and live in harmony through Jesus.

Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank you for giving us a way to experience you like no other. Thank you that you offer us a life where we can rest with you and not have to attempt it alone. Where can I say “yes” to you in my life today? How can I slow down and be still for you? Thank you for another day not promised.
In your holy name, Amen.

Further Reading
Psalm 46
Psalm 23
Luke 10:38-42

– Dylan Clapp, 2024-25 Black Diamond Camp Intern