The summer months often provide us with a time to rest; to re-charge and re-energize.  At the end of July I took what many call a “staycation.” I intentionally scheduled time off, including arranging for Rev. William Carney to lead worship and preach in my place. I left the office and put away my laptop and filtered my calls and texts on my phone.  It was only four days, but it was a wonderful time of rest. 

SIDEBAR: This wasn’t our original plan. A brother pastor announced his retirement this past spring and indicated his willingness to provide vacation pulpit supply. Since this has been a challenge in the past, I jumped at the chance and guessed at what would be a good weekend away.  Turns out I was wrong! So we stayed local.

Defining Rest

A friend and neighbor is planning to take a six-week cruise leaving from the Pacific Northwest and ending up in Bogata, Columbia, by way of Antarctica. It will be a wonderful  journey for them, I am sure. They enjoy cruising.  It would drive me crazy!

Others enjoy trips to Disney in Florida, they even have a “subscription” that provides a discount for multiple trips in a year. One SJLC leader schedules a fishing trip every June. Another recently retired SJLC leader enjoys hunting trips.  None of these fit my definition of “rest.”

When Deaconess Michele asked where we would be I told her, “Our usual. We’re visiting our oldest daughter and helping her with projects around her house.”  Then I added in a follow-up text: “She lives three blocks from our home!”  I enjoy visiting my family and helping them out with a project around their house. I am re-energized by accomplishment … at church and personally. 

Redefining Rest

But here’s where we all tend to miss the boat when it comes to rest for God’s people. The scriptures are filled with references to “rest.”  

• My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest. Exodus 33:14
• I will give you rest from all your enemies. 2 Samuel 7:11
• Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
• In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8

Here is a biblical truth: true rest comes from and is focused on God. That doesn’t mean we cannot find rest through other means and find our own unique way to “recharge” and be re-energized.  It means that to have true rest our times of rest must focus our attention all the more intently on God.

Sabbath Rest

God’s design includes intentional and regular time for rest. “Sabbath-keeping” is, at its heart, designed to provide time not only for rest, but being focused on God alone. It’s the reason worship and the Sabbath go together. Worship each weekend is designed mostly to be a regular and intentional way to re-focus our attention on God. 

I look forward to seeing you in worship for a time of true Sabbath rest!