-Exodus 20:8

It is so good to be back. After a very full summer with our children and youth and various mission projects and Bible studies and events, it was time for a much needed break. Jessica and I spent some time with just the boys. While we did schedule a few fun things like a day of robo-camp and an evening at Stone Mountain, the rest, we played by ear. So there was much bike riding, swimming, hiking, board game playing, costume wearing, and a sprinkling of movie watching. 

Before working in and for the church, Sabbath was easy to carve out. Back then, I simply found a worship service to attend, friends to join for lunch, and tried to take a break from work and school. When I began working for the church, worship was still worship, but Sunday was no longer sabbath. With the exception of the occasional nap here and there, Sundays get filled with youth group and prep for that, and racing around with the family. I've spoken with many other pastors who face the challenge of finding sabbath that looks like rest and time away with God, rather than simply being content to be AT church five or six or seven days a week.

I was grateful for a week away from work, though I did miss the work and my coworkers and those I serve. However, like all Sabbath, it is a reminder from the creator that we are human beings and created ones. Not human doings. We are loved and called to purpose, not just busyness. It gave me time to be intentional, to watch my boys that God has given me to raise, and to more fully appreciate my wife as their mother, the meals and activities she prepared for us. I hope that this Sunday, or on your next vacation or day off that you'll spend time with God and reflect on who God calls you to be and give thanks, and not just thinking about all you have to do when that time is over.