Embracing Rest in a Hectic World

As we meander through the tapestry of spiritual practices, let's turn our attention to an often overlooked yet profoundly transformative aspect of our relationship with the Divine: the art of rest, or as it is traditionally known, observing the Sabbath.

Picture this: God’s Top-Ten-List - yes, the Ten Commandments. Often, our minds might dart to a list of “don’ts” and “can’ts.” It might feel like a divine restriction on our lives, a set of heavenly “Thou shalt nots.” But what if I told you there’s more to it than meets the eye?

Now, don't get it wrong, these commandments are vital, but there’s one among them that stands out, not for its restrictions, but for its invitation to embrace life fully. It's like a divine pause button, a moment in our week specifically designed for us to breathe, rest, and relish in the beauty of life. Yes, we're talking about the fourth commandment: "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy."

This commandment isn't about what we can't do; it’s about what we can gain when we intentionally slow down. It's a gift, a protective measure from the Divine, encouraging us to take care of our souls. And yet, it's probably one of the most neglected gifts, especially in our bustling, always-on-the-go culture.

So, let's take a journey together, shall we? A journey to rediscover the Sabbath, to find joy in rest, and to realign our hearts with the rhythm of divine rest.

The Sabbath isn’t just a nice idea; it's a divine command, written in stone, unchanging and unwavering. It's God's invitation to us, an invitation to step off the hamster wheel of life and to savor the beauty around us. It’s about ceasing our work, not just our jobs, but all the tasks and chores that fill our “days off.” It’s about setting aside a full 24 hours each week to rest, delight, and rejuvenate our souls.

But let’s be honest, the idea of truly resting can feel foreign, even uncomfortable. We live in a world that glorifies busyness, where our worth is often measured by our productivity. The thought of resting for a whole day? It sounds almost radical.

And yet, the Sabbath isn’t a new concept. It’s woven into the very fabric of creation. God himself rested on the seventh day, not because He was tired, but to delight in His creation. And He invites us to do the same. To take a day to step back, to delight in the life He has given us, and to rest in His provision.

Now, you might be thinking, “Resting is easier said than done.” And you're right. But what if we started to view the Sabbath not as a strict set of rules to follow, but as a day of joy and delight? A day to do the things that fill our souls, to spend time with loved ones, to enjoy the beauty of nature, and to rest in the presence of the Divine.

Imagine a day where the to-do list is set aside, where the hustle and bustle of life is paused, and where we can truly rest. It’s a revolutionary act in our fast-paced world, but it’s a practice that has the power to transform our lives.

So here's the invitation: join us on this journey of rediscovering the Sabbath. To find the joy in rest, to embrace the divine rhythm of work and rest, and to live in a way that is emotionally and spiritually healthy. For in the practice of Sabbath, we find a deeper connection to the Divine, to ourselves, and to the world around us. And that is a gift worth embracing.

- Adapted from messages preached at our 3 campuses on 11/05/23.