How are you going… really?
I wonder what word you would choose to describe how you’re going right now. For many people I talk to it seems that we’re all pretty tired. I know the reasons for this will be many and varied but I wonder if one reason is that the ways we used to refresh and replenish have changed. Maybe it’s holiday plans that were cancelled or postponed. Maybe working from home has changed your routine. Maybe close friends or family have moved away. Whatever the cause, it’s important to take proactive steps.
From the beginning, God set in place a rhythm of rest called Sabbath. Jesus said that this was a day made for people - for their good. And while I know it will be difficult for people to observe a whole day of rest each week, there are some principles that emerge that can be really helpful.
Rest (Exodus 20:11). The main purpose of Sabbath is to rest. A moment every week when regular work - whatever that is for you - ceases. In an age where so many of us can work online, it’s easy to never really leave the office. Are there times when we genuinely stop? Are you getting enough sleep? Are you making time to rest?
Remember (Deuteronomy 5:15). The rest that God first observed was not because he was tired. Rather there’s a sense of him celebrating and enjoying the complete and good creation. It’s easy for us to live lives with a perpetual to-do list and little sense of finishing. How can we find moments to reflect and remember? It could be as simple as sharing favourite things from your day around the dinner table or writing in a journal 3 things you’re deeply grateful for today. Are we taking time to remember?
Refreshment (Exodus 20:17) - Moses records that after the Sabbath, God was refreshed. It means we have to use Sabbath time intentionally and it may not simply be on the couch (although it could be). For me I have learned through trial and error what refreshes me. It’s things like exercising outdoors, reading, worship, time with friends or family. It means when I’m tired I can check whether I’ve been skipping some of these things that I know are helpful. Do you know what refreshes you? If not, think about moments you’ve been refreshed in the past and what contributed to it. Then try some and see how it goes. Once you know them, you can start building them into your routine. A little goes a long way.
Much love,
Simon
This post is part of the Senior Pastor’s weekly blog. Go to the blog feed >>