Honor A Sabbath Time
A Sabbath time can be 24 hours or one hour. It is simply time that is intentionally and regularly set aside as a time of rest and renewal. Sabbath is an ancient Jewish/Christian practice founded on the very beginnings of creation---Genesis tells us even God rested as a part of the creative act. Honoring and practicing rest and renewal recognizes the need in life for balance and for rhythm. It has been said that all of life requires a rhythm of rest…seasons, plants, animals and our very bodies. A standard reality for many of us is busyness. Our lack of rest is not just a personal affliction, but affects our relationships, community, and likely the world.
A Sabbath time does not entail a long list of “do nots.” It does entail an important list of “do’s.” To honor or practice the Sabbath means to remember life is a blessing, to remember to pause and give thanks. Sabbath time is time to listen to the still voice of God within each one of us. Sabbath time is a spiritual, psychological and biological necessity.
It may be honoring a specific day like Sundays, or setting aside an afternoon regularly, or taking a walk. It is not just the absence of work nor is it time to watch T.V. or pay bills or do laundry. Traditionally, a Sabbath time is honored by the lighting of candles with a special meal, sharing good food with family or friends, gathering in worship and prayer, singing songs, blessing children in word and presence, creating space for solitude, reading scripture or other sources for edification and nurturing intimate relationships.
Practicing the art of rest and renewal is an invitation to discover greater ease, joy and peace.
