Rich Dixon asked this awhile back. It was worth bringing it back.

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What now?

The big project’s complete, the celebration’s done, the crowd’s gone. What’s next?

Rest, of course. Recharge, reflect. But then – what?

Actually, the answer’s simple. Do the next right thing.

You’re thinking that’s not so easy, with so much to do and so many to help. When you feel pulled in a dozen directions at once, choosing that next right thing feels hard.

You’re right. “Simple” isn’t the same as “easy.” Perhaps the next right thing can be discovered in these profoundly simple words:

And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

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But maybe you’re absolutely drained. Maybe you just can’t face one more task or confront one more injustice. If so, perhaps you might listen to these peaceful words:

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

What if those burdens you carry aren’t intended for you? What if, for you, the next right thing, the next act of mercy and humility, is a cup of tea and a good book?

That’s a conversation for you and God. Maybe for you that conversation, and some listening, is the next right thing.

When you and I walk with Jesus, whether at rest or at work, He assures us that we’ll travel lightly, even when there’s sweat and sacrifice. Don’t you long to fall into the unforced rhythms of grace?