Empty Drawers

 

It was a strange sight to see this stack of five drawers set out at the curb. Just the drawers. Not a cabinet or vanity. No knobs. No various random items that had once filled the drawers. Just empty drawers, neatly stacked. I couldn’t help but wonder what had once filled them.

Sometimes we can find ourselves feeling the same way about our lives. We once felt full and life was good. Our time and our hearts were full of all kinds of joy and meaning and purpose. People we loved. Work that was fulfilling to us. The ability to embrace the present moment and hope for the future.

Then it all changes. Loss and grief come. Disappointment drains us. We feel like empty drawers, wondering what happened and how things could change so quickly. Where did everything that filled us go?

Jesus has words for such times in our lives, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

May these words find their way into your heart if you find yourself in such a place. There is rest. There is hope. There is more to come, even if you feel empty. We can be filled once again with joy.

Peace.