Mark 2:23–28 ‘Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.’ (vv27–28)
Rest requires that we take back control of our time. This demands honesty. We may have little choice over our employment, yet we can make decisions about what’s worth spending time on.*
Often the depression brought on by work or by lack of money means we surrender control over our life. How can things possibly work out? Life’s pressure bears down on us and we lose sight of our purpose. We stop dreaming and just function.
Yet a time is elastic so we can mould it to serve us. When worried we tend to establish unhealthy routines. We eat quick, easy, but unhealthy food. We channel-surf, go to bed too late and wake jaded and depressed.
God invites us to take time outside of work and sleep to build the life we want. Time marches on carrying us to the grave, so let’s establish some great reasons for living.
When God rested, He considered His creation and expressed contentment. So we can all discover how to appreciate our life. I’ve had a number of jobs.
One of the hardest and dirtiest was working at a hospital laundry. Hot and unrelenting heavy work still afforded an opportunity to encourage workmates and have some fun. I also dreamed of the extended household I wanted to live in and with others, we created something together that enriched our lives spiritually and materially.
Today I know my life rhythms. I’m committed to journeying deeper into God’s heart through a practical life of contemplation and service. There are always distractions and demands but I am well placed to manage them.
SCRIPTURE TO CONSIDER:
Exod. 3:1–15; 1 Sam. 21:1–6; Matt 12:1–14; John 9:1–7
AN ACTION TO TAKE:
Find the courage and conviction, to be honest about what you want from life,
or life will simply happen outside of your control. Resources are limited,
but resourcefulness is unlimited.
A PRAYER TO MAKE:
‘Lord, when I face my frustrations and I’m tempted to entertain regrets,
help me to focus on the possibilities I have in You. Amen.’
Photo by Monstera
