Redefining Sabbath

By Brenda Jank

In 2015 I spoke at the National Student Leadership Conference at Taylor University. Vision-casting was evident at every turn. Joy flowed freely through the students, the fellowship, the assembled speakers.

On Saturday morning, J. R. Briggs reminded us that the right question, at the right time can “redefine my reality and rewrite my story.” So true. So very true. Got me thinking.

Many people today question the value of Sabbath – maybe not with their words, but by their deeds, or lack thereof.

What if the Sabbath Remember-ers of this world would begin to ask re-defining questions of our Sabbath Rest?  How might the REST of this day grow and expand, claiming new realms of our body, mind, and soul?  Questions like . . .

• Did I veer off the freeway long enough for God to refresh my soul?
• Did I reconnect with God in a way that woke up my sleepy soul? Did I enjoy the company of important people in my life full-tilt, no guilt?
• Did I step outside?
• Did I live in the moment, free of last week’s concerns? Unburdened by what’s before me?
• Did I unplug? Shop?
• Was I aware of my deepest needs, intent to allow God’s Rest to have its way with me . . . be it to sleep, soak in the Word, savor fun with a friend, to be still and know?
• Was I intentional? Spontaneous? Did I hear the Lord singing his love song over me and my day?

I begin my Sabbath celebration with a simple prayer (found below, click here if image does not display). It offers the intentional pause I need to allow my heart to shift gears from overdrive to park. As a card-carrying Type A person, this prayer is a portal, preparing me for the gift of rest God intends to be mine. If this prayer is a blessing, email us and we’ll send you a printable copy.  Brenda@runhardrestwell.org

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Brenda Jank and the Run Hard. Rest Well team are thought leaders in the arena of Restorative Wellness. Find additional resources at www.RunHardRestWell.org. Contact us at: brenda@runhardrestwell.org

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