Seven Types of Sabbath for Our Modern Culture!Sample

Creating Sensory Rest  

Do you ever feel sensory overload in your life? In the digital age that we live in, it can be nearly impossible to get away from the onslaught of messages and screens constantly in our faces. We can feel scrambled and overwhelmed so easily. How do we find rest from the noise, even when it can be our job to be on our computer all day or the easiest form of entertainment to just jump on our phones? 

Sometimes we need to get away from it all and find some peace of mind. Jesus understood the demands of His day and was consistently drawing aside from the crowds with His disciples for some time of rest away. They would go to the beach and eat some fish or share dinner together in a friend's home. Creating these rhythms of rest in our lives can be so important. What do you enjoy doing? What is a hobby that brings you joy? We have to remember that life is not only about getting forward movement but also about who we are becoming as people. We find ourselves in the things that bring us joy. Do you enjoy a long walk in nature, time with friends, or maybe going surfing? 

Whatever it is, there is so much value and importance in building these disciplines of enjoyment into our lives. That’s right! I said, “disciplines.” It can be a discipline to choose rest and enjoyment in the midst of a hectic life full of demands. These rhythms help remind us that we are human beings and not human doings. God created us for enjoyment and not just function. He cares about what brings us life, and the world gets to see pieces of Him in you when you fully embrace who you are. That includes embracing what you enjoy doing! One of my favorite quotes is, “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is those who have come alive.” So what are you waiting for? Go do something you love, come alive, and change the world! 

Prayer: 

Jesus, thank You that You created me for enjoyment! Thank You that You aren’t a taskmaster, but that You remember that I am human and You actually love my humanity. Help me remember to enjoy myself and find the things that I love about life in each and every day. I am grateful that You created me uniquely and that I get to discover who You created me to be through what brings me joy! You are such a good God, and I celebrate life in You today!