SUMMER SABBATH

Entering into June we all look forward to time relaxing and resting. We take time to relax our bodies and our minds. As human beings we need downtime because we can only work and be fruitful out of our rest. We need a restoration from the stressors and obstacles. We need rest from every day’s toil. When we are rested we are more productive.

In the midst of all the toils and trials, you also need rest for your soul. If your soul is exhausted and dragged down, how will you find the strength?   Jesus says to you: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my [teaching] upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”  (Matthew 11:28-29)

As you are lounging by the lake, watching your bobber from the boat, or soaking up the sun, how are you refeshing your soul this summer?  Finding refreshment for your soul is not found in a worship-less barcalounger or reclining in some spiritless vacuum. Don’t use summer as an excuse to avoid worship and shun restoration for your soul.

The balm to sooth your soul is found reclining in God (Hebrews 4:1-11).  “There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience.” (Hebrews 4:9-11)  Maybe, just maybe, summer sabbath is the best time to rest in the LORD because you are ready to relax; to be still.

Soaking in the LORD to absorb the peace may be easier in the midst of a slower summer pace. When you enter into the downtime of worship; when you are still and recline in the LORD, you will find the restoration of your life needs.  “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you rest in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). When you abide and rest in God, you are empowered to bring forth great fruitfulness in your life.

 ”Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him.” (Psalm 62:1, see also Ps 91:1)

Your servant in the Gospel, Pastor Douglas