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Rev. Charles Burton offers a reflection that came to him during a nature walk on the consequences of stressing to get a lot done, but also the relief felt in giving it into God our Father’s hands.
In an attempt to notice the wonder of creation around me, yesterday I looked up whilst out walking in Northumberland and right above me were two large gulls.
Gliding and Soaring
It was a breezy day but this pair were staying together, gliding and soaring whilst using the air currents; allowing their large wingspan to traverse with what seemed like minimal effort moving away from me into the distance.
That caught my attention as I carried on my way I thought how we as humans are often the complete opposite; reacting to events, stressing about things that face us each day and rushing around trying to fit too much into our hectic days.
Maybe that’s why I recently ended up having to do my speed awareness course as I was just trying to do too much within an allotted time.
Those around us can often help: the other day someone said to me ‘last time I saw you very stressed!…but now you seem more relaxed!’ That helped me realise that yes there is a better more measured pace to life which is all about
- knowing your own limitations,
- working well in harmony with others,
- building and leaning on each others’ strengths and gifts whilst
- finding joy in our daily work rather that fighting against the pressures a day brings.
The Blessing of Surrender
Where’s God our Heavenly Father to be found in all this?
I think it’s about each of us recognising Him, allowing Him to hold and lead us and surrendering ourselves to Him so that we can truly know His guiding hand leading and enabling us as He carries us in His everlasting arms. Perhaps then these words of Jesus His precious Son will truly resonate in our own hearts:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11: 28-30
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Rev Charles Burton
Published in the October 2026 edition of the Parish magazines.
You can order Parish magazines, which contain additional articles, by visiting All Saints or Christ Church
Photo courtesy of Unsplash