and I will give you rest . . .

Goodbyes are always hard!  Our son and his family headed back to the mission field on Monday.  It was a tough day.  We are so proud of them, yet my heart is still a bit sad at their going.  But, I had the joy of spending Sunday afternoon with our granddaughters.  We were enjoying the sunshine when I showed the girls how to use my camera and asked them to take pictures of their favorite things.  Our 3 year old, Sofi, chose these rocking chairs as her first try.  I love it!

I have always loved rocking chairs.  I remember as a child sitting at my mom's feet as she rocked my younger siblings.  I so wished I could still fit on her lap with the others.  Mom remembered that night, too, as we spoke about it years later.  She told me she could see the longing in my eyes to crawl up in her lap and was sorry there just wasn't a bit more room.  There is something so comforting about crawling up in the arms of another and gently rocking worries and hurts away.

As I was driving home from work today this picture came to mind.  One of Sofi's favorite things is also my favorite thing.  I was also reminded of Matthew 11:28, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."  It says to me, "Come, sit on my lap.  There is plenty of room.  Rest your head against me and relax.  I am taking care of your children and I am taking care of you."

I am sitting in my rocking chair for a bit tonight and am grateful for the hours spent there holding those I love.  I sit here grateful that my Heavenly Father calls me to come rest.  I am sitting here thankful!