Dear Friends,
When school ends each year, I often find that we roll into camps, travel, and the heat of the summer with “batteries” that are already depleted. Even in the church we find ourselves falling into the traps of busyness, despite resisting the idea that “what we do” defines us or promoting stillness, reflection, and rest as virtues.

We value these things because God both modeled them for us and told us to come to Jesus for rest:
On the sixth day God completed all the work that he had done, and on the seventh day God rested from all the work that he had done. God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all the work of creation. – Genesis 2:2-3

“Come to me, all you who are struggling hard and carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Put on my yoke, and learn from me. I’m gentle and humble. And you will find rest for yourselves. My yoke is easy to bear, and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30

In modern life where busyness is often worn like a badge of honor, it can be hard to accept the simple truth that we were created not just to work, but to rest. In fact, rest is woven into the pattern of creation itself. After six days of forming the heavens and the earth, “God rested from all the work of creation.” The Sabbath wasn’t just a break; it became one of the commandments. God, who never grows weary, modeled rest so that we would follow.

Friends have always valued simplicity and listening. But how can we hear the still, small voice of God if our lives are too loud with activity? How can we discern His guidance when we are emotionally and physically exhausted?

Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28 is not a suggestion, but the word used there is not an imperative or command, either. It’s a loving invitation. He sees our weariness, the burdens we carry, and He offers something the world cannot: true rest. This rest isn’t just physical. It’s a deep spiritual renewal that comes from laying down our striving and taking up His peace. Rest in God creates room in our hearts to remember who we are and whose we are.

As we all probably know, there is danger in ignoring rest. Burnout and breakdowns happen. Even the prophet Elijah, after extensive work for God, found himself burnt out and worn down in 1 Kings 19. What did God do? He didn’t rebuke Elijah for his weariness. Instead, He sent an angel to offer food, water, and sleep. Only after Elijah rested did God speak to him again—not in the wind, the earthquake, or the fire, but a gentle whisper.

Friends, are we making space for rest in our lives? Not just sleep or vacation, but Sabbath—time set aside to be with God, to be renewed in His presence, to remember that you are not defined by what you produce, but by who you are in Christ.

This week, I pray that we would accept Jesus’ invitation to come to Him, lay our burdens down, and find rest in God. Find a quiet place, listen for the whisper of God’s Spirit, and find rest for your soul.
In Christ,

Bobby Kirkpatrick
 
Cafe Connections
Join us in the Coffee Cafe for Cafe Connections at 9:00 AM before the worship service on Sundays. This is a time for all ages to gather, eat some donuts, drink some coffee, explore different topics through conversation, and get to know someone new.
 
Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels is in need of more delivery drivers. This is an easy commitment to add to your resume; you would only need to deliver one day each nine weeks.  

Ted Roeser is happy to answer any questions about how to get started in serving with this group. You can give him a call or email Ted to get more information on how easy it can be to deliver with Meals on Wheels.
 
Children’s Corner
Exciting News!!! Our gym floor is getting a refresh!
Friends Center Gym and Playground will be closed until Vacation Bible School on June 23rd.
VBS Picnic
If you are available to help with setup before or serve during the Vacation Bible School Picnic on Sunday, June 29th please email Joyce Byrne or Jennifer Barmore. You can also call the church office for more information.
Little Kids Swim
Moms of littles are welcome to swim with their kids at the Kirkpatrick pool on Friday, June 13th from 10:00 am – 12:30 pm. Bring a picnic lunch, floaties, and sunscreen for a fun time together with friends in the pool. Contact the church office if you have any questions.
 
Student Ministries Update
Camp Quaker Haven is just around the corner! Be praying for the hearts of the campers and counselors as they prepare for a special time at camp.
CQH Dates
HS Camp Dates: June 4th – 9th
JH Camp Dates: June 9th -14thStudent Pastor Update
Farewell Reception
Join us after the worship service on June 15th in the Coffee Cafe for a reception to honor Katelyn Sanders and her impact on our church.
Welcome Luke Ballard!
We are thrilled to be able to announce that Luke Ballard has accepted the role as Pastor of Student Ministries. More information on when he will begin is coming soon, but for now, be praying for the transition and his move to Texas!