Saturday, December 19th
Saturday Spiritual Discipline: Sabbath Rest
9 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10 for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. 11 Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. – Hebrews 4:9-11 (NIV)
In the Christmas season, it is easy to be busy running around buying gifts, visiting family, and checking out some incredible Christmas lights. At the end of the day, it is easy to lose sight of why we truly celebrate Christmas. How could this be? We are so busy celebrating through our traditions that we lose heart of the real “reason for the season.” Don’t get me wrong, I will be checking out awesome light shows, buying gifts for my family, and spending the day with loved ones, but let’s not forget the real reason we celebrate Christmas: Jesus. As a spiritual discipline of Sabbath Rest, take the day and try to do as little work as you can. This includes any “fun” activities for the day. Stay inside with your family and try to be present with God. Spend the day praying, reading Scripture, and resting in the presence of God. (if today is already a lost cause, resolve to take a day like this as soon as possible) Next week will likely be a big one, so take a day of rest… and remember to spend it with Jesus.
Author Ian Jeffries