Sun., July 29, 2018
Matthew 12:1 – About that time, Jesus was walking one day through some grain fields with his disciples. It was on the Sabbath, the Jewish day of worship, and his disciples were hungry; so they began breaking off heads of wheat and eating the grain. But some Pharisees saw them do it and protested, “Your disciples are breaking the law. They are harvesting on the Sabbath.”
Today is Sunday. A day of Sabbath.
Or a day that should be a day of Sabbath.
Sabbath is not easy for me. For years, I worked on Sunday. It was a big day. I got up early, lead worship, tried to listen and be with people and appreciate being in a faith community. Often, I would take a nap in the afternoon. It has not been uncommon for other church-related activities in the afternoon and/or evening. It is just how Sundays rolled.
I am not currently serving a church as a pastor. Finding a new Sunday rhythm has been a change; for Hubby Rick and myself. Honestly, we’re still trying to find it.
Traditionally, Sabbath is a break from everyday life and spending more time with God. (This isn’t a Webster’s definition. It’s my understanding.) With overfull lives for most families today, Sabbath often becomes just one more thing we cross off of our to-do list.
Attend worship. Check.
Try to slow down. Semi-check.
Enjoy time with family. Depends on the Sunday.
Listen for God. Is this even possible?
I have heard all the reasons why Sabbath doesn’t make sense for the 21st century:
It’s the only day I get to sleep in.
It’s family day.
I just need a break.
For some, it’s another day of full-on taxi mode.
Maybe what is most important about Sabbath happens within our hearts, not just our calendars. Sometimes, our souls need a break. Silence. The right kind of uplifting music. Less doing and more being.
Here’s to today, a day of Sabbath. Create an opportunity for you to just be with the Lord. Take a nap. Linger. Hold the hand of someone precious to you. Smile. Breathe deep.
For Sabbath, I am grateful.
Lord God – thank you for the example of rest. I pray we create an opportunity to rest in your arms today. Refresh us and renew us this day. Amen.
Blessings –
Dianne
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