After a challenging period at Pacific Life Church due to staff shortages, my wife Karen and I took a much-needed vacation to New Mexico, feeling exhausted but returning refreshed and blessed after ten days. Not all vacations are equal; some can leave you more tired than before. Reflecting on Moses' busy life and God's commandment to rest in Exodus, I realized true rest comes from God, not just from vacations or activities. I encourage everyone planning a summer vacation to invite God into their time off for a deeper, more meaningful refreshment.

In a recent reflection, I shared a moment where I felt pressured to retire at a certain age, despite feeling capable and willing to continue. Approaching 70, I discussed retirement with a friend who suggested I still had much to offer. This prompted me to pray for guidance and reconsider my plans, recalling the wisdom of Proverbs 3:5-6. I realized the importance of trusting God's timing over societal expectations or personal pressures, emphasizing that age should not dictate our life decisions. My advice: learn from life's lessons and seek God's direction rather than conforming to others' expectations.