This week, parts of Europe have been hit by a big storm. Many flights were cancelled and schools have closed due to high winds and rain. It reminds me of my favorite days growing up: snow days.
Growing up in rural Ontario, we were always guaranteed at least a couple of snow days each school year. There was no sweeter sound in the world than hearing your school’s cancellation announced over the radio. It meant we could go back to bed or stay in our pajamas for the morning, or maybe the whole day. We could watch television, play some games, or just hang out. Eventually, we’d get bored inside and head outside to build a fort or a snowman.
Most adults today suffer from overwork and sleep deficit. I believe many are in need of a snow day. The Urban Dictionary says it is an unexpected day when work is cancelled and it is a “day to relax, not a day to catch up on work.” Sometimes, you’re the one who has to do the cancelling.
A day of rest is what the Sabbath was meant to be. No plans, no agenda, no catching up on work or no having to run out for a few things – just a day at home. When the Lord gave Israel the Law, he commanded that they take one day off in seven. If you’re a regular churchgoer, you probably don’t actually find Sunday to be a day of rest. We’ve managed to fill it with many other activities.
In Deuteronomy 5:15, when the people were commanded to keep the Sabbath, they were told: “Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm.” Slaves never have the option of a snow day. God delivered them from the treadmill of unending work. Truthfully, there will always be more work and it will never be finished. In God’s economy, we are able to rest because he gives us rest. Do we trust him enough to take it?
So maybe you’ll find a way to take a snow day this month. Sometimes it takes planning, but it can happen. One of God’s gifts to us is rest, so make sure you discover that and enjoy it.