The Summer months of July and August tend to bring a break for many people. Some people who do not have children at home often take a holiday at other times of the year – for those with children the end of term allows holidays to begin. Some people go abroad, some travel to various parts of the British Isles, others are happy to undertake DIY around the home and garden – doing things which perhaps have been put off for months.
Rest from the busyness of life is a Biblical principle established by God. In the Book of Genesis after creating the heavens and the earth God rested on the seventh day. This is where the word “Sabbath” comes from, a day of rest, usually on a Sunday. Jesus recognised the importance of rest from the busyness of life – he often got into a boat and crossed to the other side of Lake Galilee to “escape” from the crowds. At other times he would go up a mountainside. This reminds us that as well as being Son of God, Jesus was also human, he struggled with tiredness and a heavy workload and need time to recover. Unfortunately, because of increased working commitments, Sunday trading, Sunday sport and so on, many do not have the opportunity for a day of rest from their busy routine and often suffer the consequences of this, such as an increase in stress related illnesses and a breakdown in family relationships – which is why a summer break is important.
Jesus took time out to renew himself – often he also took his disciples with him knowing their need also for a break. Taking a rest or time out restores them. So likewise with ourselves we all need a break or time out – using it wisely as best suits us. Whether it be a holiday abroad or travelling here or simply being at home it is “much needed” to “recharge your batteries” both emotionally and physically. Some words of a hymn come to mind :-
O Sabbath rest by Galilee
O calm of hills above
Where Jesus knelt to share with thee
The silence of eternity
Interpreted by love
Interpreted by love
Please do enjoy this time of the year and make room for Rest, Refreshment and Renewal, for times of Quiet and Peace.
Every Blessing
Peter