“And on the seventh day God finished the work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work that he had done.” (Genesis 2:2)
When I start to feel burdened or overwhelmed by my responsibilities-or overwhelmed-I listen to podcasts and read the books of organizational and productivity gurus. I adopt their techniques such as time-blocking and the pomodoro method. I preserve my “golden hours”-the time of my day when I am most alert and focused-for my most difficult work. But no matter how organized I get, I can’t do it all. And I shouldn’t expect this of myself.
Genesis 2:2 is a good reminder fro over-achievers, Type-A personalities or anyone who feels like they just can’t keep up. God worked hard for six days, then rested on the seventh. The commandment to observe sabbath is a lesson in self-care and humility. We need rest. Everyone does. Even God rested. And, if we stop, the world will carry on. The sky will not fall. Our consumeristic culture values productivity above even our health and well-being. But we can resist this idolatry-worship of work-by hitting the “pause” button on our lives, taking a day, or a week off. Resting is a means to assess who we are in relationship to our work, our lives and our God.
Examine: Consider your schedule for this week. Is there a day you can set aside for rest and renewal? What would happen on such a day? What would it feel like? Notice thoughts and feelings that arise as yu consider this invitation to rest.
Imagine: Imagine yourself on sabbath as the world moves on without your work and productivity. What does it feel like to rest as the world continues to turn. What thoughts, fears or stresses arise as you witness what is accomplished without your effort? Where is God, and what is God doing as you rest
Pray: Free me from this burden,O God, so I can live with your blessings.
