Public Enemy #1
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Since that time, I've embarked on a journey into the rhythms of rest. The Bible speaks about a number of rhythms: daily, weekly, yearly. Allowed free reign in my life, they have transformed, revived, and sculpted me inside and out. Driven and passionate, I would not be here today without them. Learning how to rest well has allowed me to run hard. I continue to break a sweat each day, but now I do it with a lot more joy.
Where Do I Begin?
Are you ready to take a step in the right direction? Pray for God to open your eyes to the way you spend your time throughout the week. Then stay alert for some time when you could move things around and rest. All you need is an hour to start!
Then like a mama bear, guard that hour to make it guilt-free. Use it to rest. If you can manage two hours, even better! If you're a mom, get creative and create some kid-free time—somehow. Ask another mom to watch your kids for that hour. Unplug completely. (Don't answer the phone!) Lounge. Nap. Get outside. Take a walk. Breathe deeply. Listen to the birds. Be aware of the tension in your neck and shoulders. Do something that delights you.
As you allow yourself this time to catch your breath, keep this truth before you: I am participating in what God calls holy.
Run hard. Rest well.
Brenda Jank is director of personal retreat ministries at Camp Lutherhaven in Indiana.
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Patricia
I welcome this article while recognising that it's not possible, because of work commitments, for many Christians to keep a Sabbath. We can learn much from the Seventh Day Adventists in this regard. My sabbath keeping has been done in short spurts over the years although when I spent time at my in-laws who are Adventists, I saw an absolute beauty in taking time out. From the "ring in of the Sabbath" on Friday evenings at sunset when the family got together, singing hymns accompanied by piano, to the huge lunch which followed church service on Saturday, following by resting in the afternoon or a peaceful drive, it reminded me that God knew what he was doing when he commanded us to keep the Sabbath. I'm going to try to be consistent in my observation of it, beginning this Sunday, whether it is to simply stay at home and rest or visit friends or family.
Sue Fairchild
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