2:264 – Rest and Reflect

#faithbites #faithjourney #redletterchallenge reflect

Most days, I feel like the Energizer Bunny. I keep going and going and going. There is always something to do. Rest isn’t something I’m used to. Today, while reading the Red Letter Challenge, I learned something about the Sabbath I hadn’t understood before.

Sure, I knew God created everything in six days and rested on the seventh. Sure I knew growing up Jewish, how the Jewish people understand the Sabbath. It’s a day for no work. What I didn’t realize is why. The purpose of the Sabbath is not only to rest, but to reflect on all you have accomplished.

If you don’t reflect, how do you see what you’ve done and where you are going. Part of the reflection is communing with God and thanking him for he has done and where he has taken you.

I know that we all need one day in seven to rest and not work. (And no, I’m not talking about cooking or basic play). It’s really hard to actually do that. Because as I say often “Craps, gotta get done”. (And you can replace the work Crap with another word as well)/

Scripture

Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. – Colossians 2:16

Reflection

Enjoy the Sabbath, how, when, and where you want to. Don’t be caught up by old rules or conceptions of what the Sabbath. If it’s a half-day here and a half-day there.

When we take the time, let’s reflect and worship. Making sure God is present completes the circle of creation and rest. Just don’t do work, and work is defined how you define it.

It will be hard to do it. I know I can’t do it this week because I’m at a work conference. But I will do my best to take a few hours here and there to try and rest, reflect, and be thankful.

Challenge

Book a day to rest. Maybe two half-days. But schedule time for you and God. Time to rest, reflect, and enjoy. Think back on everything that you accomplished. This will not only provide physical rest but spiritual rest and recharge.

Prayer

God, thank you for showing us by example that we need to rest. Remind us that rest isn’t just passing out and sleeping, but reflecting on the greatness that we did through you in the week. From tiny tasks to monster projects, we need to see that what we did has meaning and was an accomplishment. Help us to clear our schedules to truly rest, reflect, and be with you. In your name, Amen.