Epworth & Belton Group of Churches

Revd Paul’s Refection for August 2025 - A Time to Rest, a Time to Be Renewed

August often arrives like a gentle exhale, doesn’t it? A slower pace, the scent of summer in the air, gardens in full bloom, and—for some—a break from school or work. If we’re fortunate, there’s a chance to get away for a few days or at least enjoy a change of rhythm. For many, August offers space for rest, refreshment, and renewal. Even those who stay close to home often find it invites a pause—a chance to reflect, to breathe more deeply, to catch our breath.

It reminds me of a story I once heard about a group of travellers on a long journey through the African bush. They walked for miles, day after day, covering great distances. Then quite suddenly, the group of sherpas stopped walking and refused to move. No one was unwell. Nothing had broken down. When asked why, their guide replied, “We are waiting for our souls to catch up.”

What a vivid picture that is. The body can keep going, even when the soul is weary—but sooner or later, we all need to stop. To rest. To be still. To allow our souls to catch up with our lives.

Even Jesus recognised this deep need. After a demanding time of teaching and healing, he said to his disciples, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while” (Mark 6.31, NRSV). He knew that spiritual health isn’t only about doing—it’s also about being. Stillness, prayer, quiet… these things aren’t luxuries; they’re essential.

Of course, for some, August may not feel restful at all. If you—or someone you love—are facing health challenges, anxiety, or the weight of ongoing treatment, rest can be hard to find. Please know that God’s invitation to rest and healing is especially for you. Even in seasons of difficulty, his presence surrounds us—quietly, faithfully—offering strength for each day, and peace in the midst of uncertainty.

So whether you’re travelling, staying local, caring for others, or simply doing your best to get through each day, may August bring you moments of grace, glimpses of beauty, and the deep reassurance that God walks gently beside you.

Here’s a simple prayer to carry with you:

Loving Lord,

In this season of summer, grant us rest where we are weary, peace where we are anxious, healing where we are hurting, and hope where we are struggling.

Help us to pause, to breathe, and to remember that you are God.

Renew us—body, mind, and soul—so that we may live and serve with glad and grateful hearts.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wishing you peace and every blessing this August,

Revd Paul

The Revd Paul Wilson

Rector of the Epworth Group of Churches

Priest-in-Charge of the Belton Group of Churches

Assistant Curate of the Crowle Group of Churches and the Haxey and Owston Ferry Plurality

Rural Dean of the Isle of Axholme Deanery