News and Updates for Friends of The Upper Room | Easter 2026
Fellowship Focus Forced Rest Nicole Curtis, Director of Development
I’m the first to admit that I often don’t practice what I preach. At The Upper Room, we talk a lot about the importance of rest as a spiritual discipline. But how often do I actually practice it? If I’m honest, hardly at all.
caretaker in my family, receiving care felt like a gift. Jesus himself modeled a lifestyle that valued the rhythm of rest. Throughout the Gospels, he withdrew from the crowds to pray, to listen, and to be renewed in the presence of God. And he promised us this gift of rest as well:
Recently, I was forced to rest. Covid hit my family, canceling our spring break plans and sending us into isolation. When it was my turn to isolate, I decided I wouldn’t “soldier on” and try to work or be what we usually call productive. Instead, I chose to take care of my body. To my surprise, those days were some of the most restorative I’ve had in years. I read, watched old TV shows, slept, and let others care for me. As the primary
“Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”
Who among us isn’t weary at times or who doesn’t carry heavy burdens? During this Easter season and beyond, I’m intentionally trying to carve out more space for rest. Through the ministries you support, The Upper Room extends this gift of rest to people around the world—offering daily moments of prayer, reflection, and renewal. Thank you for helping make this possible. And perhaps the invitation is for you as well—to pause, breathe, and receive the rest Christ offers you.
MATTHEW 11:28 (NRSVUE)
Because of
you, 2025 was amazing!
11,943 23,265 DONORS
GIFTS
$1,752,540 TOTAL
Every gift makes a difference, and we are so grateful for your support in nurturing spiritual lives around the world. Thank you for being part of this meaningful work!
For more detail, including a breakdown of individual funds, please read the 2025 Annual Donor Report. Available online and through email late April/ early May.
PO Box 305150 • Nashville, TN 37230-5150 • development@UpperRoom.org