In Pursuit of Sabbath Rest

I like to work.  I tend to do it at odd hours, but still, I put in a lot of hours a week, and happily so.  I love what I do for a living and can't imagine doing anything else.  

But I have a bit of a problem.  It's hard for me to relax and rest without feeling guilty.  I do my best to "chill" now and again, but the entire time, I  can't shake the nagging feeling that I should be doing something productive. 

Some might think, "Dude, you might need to do something about that."  I agree.  I also know that I am not alone.  Many of us struggle to make space in our lives for true Sabbath rest.  

In our current culture, where busyness often masquerades as productivity, the concept of rest has become an intriguing paradox. 

The relentless pursuit of achievement and the urgency to be ‘always on’ can leave us feeling depleted and disconnected. In response, the practice of Sabbath moments emerges not as a luxury but as a necessity for nurturing our souls and reclaiming our humanity.

In his profound work The Sabbath, Abraham Joshua Heschel illuminates the sacredness of keeping the Sabbath not as a duty but as a way to reframe time and practice life-giving rest.   

One of his central ideas is that while we often quantify time in terms of weeks, hours, and minutes, the Sabbath represents a qualitative shift. Heschel states, “The Sabbath is the meaning of time.”

This phrase suggests that the Sabbath is more than just a day of rest; it is a time set apart that embodies creation's divine purpose and significance. Heschel elaborates on how, during the Sabbath, time becomes a sanctuary where we can transcend our everyday concerns and reconnect with our spiritual selves. 

Heschel argues that instead of viewing time merely as a resource to be used efficiently, we should embrace it as a holy gift. He encourages us to engage with the rhythms of life that provide rest and reflection, asserting that it is during these moments that we find true joy, creativity, and encounter with the divine.

Further, we need to rid ourselves of the guilt we sometimes feel when we are not "being productive." Rest is not idleness; it is an act of profound self-care. 

John Koessler, in The Radical Pursuit of Rest, emphasizes that true rest requires an intentional departure from the noise of societal expectations. He notes, “Rest is a rebellion against the tyranny of busyness.” 

Stepping away from the frantic pace allows us to reclaim our narrative and find more profound joy in simply being. This rebellion against busyness is not just an act of defiance but love—towards ourselves and those around us.

The teachings of Jesus resonate with this restorative rhythm. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us, saying, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Jesus was speaking to people who felt burdened spiritually, emotionally, physically, and mentally with no apparent relief.  

Those words must have felt like grace to them, and they should for us as well.   

In a culture that often celebrates endless hustle, Jesus’ invitation offers a fresh perspective on the transformative power of pausing to be present. Rest provides a space to hear the whispers of our hearts and the guidance of God, inviting us to reorient our lives around grace rather than relentless striving.

Cultivating Sabbath moments can begin with small, intentional changes in our daily lives. 

Set aside specific times each week for rest, reflection, and renewal. This could be a few hours dedicated to enjoying nature, spending quality time with loved ones, or engaging in a hobby that brings joy. 

Prioritize these moments like you would important meetings or deadlines; their significance cannot be overstated. As you create this sacred space, you will likely notice a shift in your perspective—an increased capacity for joy, gratitude, and connection.

Finally, embrace the idea of simplicity and mindfulness. Disconnect from digital distractions and create an environment conducive to peace. Breathe deeply, allowing yourself to experience stillness. Focus less on what you must accomplish and more on the beauty of the moment, which can transform your life experience.

As you embark on this journey toward intentional rest, remember: the antidote to our culture of busyness lies in the sacred practice of Sabbath moments. 

By inviting rest into your life, you reclaim the richness of not just living but being fully alive.  

May it be so for us all, and may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us now and always. Amen.