“If you are tired from carrying heavy burdens, come to me, and I will give you rest.” -Matthew 11:28

Because of the size of our family, flying to destinations and renting a car isn’t always an option for us. Our default is usually to hop in the car and make a road trip out of it. Sometimes we’ll drive straight through the night. Other times we’ll get a hotel. And, occasionally, we’ll pull into a rest stop to sleep for an hour or two.

While there is some debate about the introduction of the first rest stop, “safety rest areas” were constructed as part of the U.S. interstate highway system that was created in 1956. They were envisioned as off-road respites where motorists could take a break. They were easy to access and offered clean bathrooms, drinking water, and picnic grounds.

While many gas stations and fast food restaurants have popped up off exits today, imagine a time when that wasn’t the case. Imagine a time when there weren’t many options for family road trippers needing rest. I, for one, am thankful for the opportunity to stretch my legs, make a pit stop, and rest from a weary drive.

Of course, we don’t have to drive to feel weary and in need of rest. Cell phones keep us constantly connected to one another and to work. 9-5? If only that were possible! The kids are clamoring for attention. Illness sets in. Bills pile up. Relationships get messy. We place our heads on our pillows only to have the alarm clock buzz, and we repeat the routine. Fatigue sets in.

If you feel that way, you need to know that a quiet voice has been calling to you - the voice of Jesus. He knows you are tired and weary and invites you to come to him and find the rest that our souls long for. If you want real rest, the best place to find it is by becoming completely dependent on the true “rest area” for our weary soul - Jesus Christ.