Month: June 2021

The summer season is almost here. For some it has already started, while others haven’t given it much thought. Thanks to the lingering covid restrictions this summer will again be different. Keeping the rhythm between work and rest remains important. It is a necessary component to staying healthy in body, soul, and spirit.  God provided the pattern for us during the week of creation. For six days God was at work and on the seventh he rested. When he formed the nation of Israel, he commanded them to keep the Sabbath because in Egypt they didn’t have the freedom to rest.  “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. Therefore the Lord your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day.” (Dt. 5:15) The children of Israel were also commanded to take time to celebrate feasts and festivals. These occasions offered a chance to take a break from the ordinary and get in touch with God and others.   In our digital world it is difficult to really disconnect from the office and our work. It is vital that we do so in order to:   Renew our body through rest – we are physically limited  Refresh our soul by enjoying family time, doing something fun, being creative – we must engage with others and with the world around us  Replenish our spirit though time with the Lord – we need to hear his voice and know his presence  Don’t put off a time of rest because you are waiting for some future date. Put something in your calendar for this summer and take a break. The work will never be finished, it’s a merciless slave driver. God offers his people rest and refreshment, we can trust him when he encourages us to “come away and rest for a while.” (Mark 6:31)   

For many people, June marks the end of the school year and perhaps means it is time for graduation. It is nice to feel a sense of accomplishment and to have the opportunity to move on. While there is normally an end to our formal education, we should never stop learning.   We refer to ourselves as disciples of Jesus. The meaning of the Greek word is really ‘a learner.’ When we follow Jesus, we begin a lifelong learning process called discipleship. Jesus calls us, he says, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me.” (Matthew 11:29, NIV). When we follow Jesus, we are learning about him and from him. We should continue to do so as long as we have breath. So why do so many Christians stop learning and growing in their faith walk? Perhaps it is to avoid looking foolish. Maybe it is just laziness. Or, have we not understand that following Jesus means we have an obligation to continue growing? Perhaps we think we are already transformed enough. Whatever the case, whatever your age, remember God’s kingdom is big and you have not fully arrived yet. If you don’t know where to start, just begin by asking Jesus what he wants to show you today.