“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
Matthew 11:28 (ESV)
Reflection
Jesus extends an invitation to all who labor and are heavy laden: come to me, and I will give you rest. Leaders often hear this as a word for others, for the people they serve and care for. But it is an invitation for leaders too.
Many organizations quietly reward exhaustion. The leader who is always available, always working and always carrying more is praised, and the culture takes note. Over time, people learn that rest is weakness and care is a luxury.
Healthy leaders model a different way. They receive rest from Christ and build cultures where people are cared for, not consumed. When leaders rest, they give others permission to rest. When leaders care for their people, the organization becomes a place where people can flourish over the long haul.
For your leadership this week
- Take a full day of rest this week, and protect it.
- Notice how your team talks about rest, time off and burnout.
- Ask your team what one change would help them feel more cared for.
Pivot question
What kind of culture is your own rhythm of work and rest creating?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I come to you weary. Give me rest, and help me lead a culture where people are cared for, not consumed. Amen.
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Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.