Find RestSample

I have been trying to look at Christ’s actions through a new perspective lately. I have been trying to see what Jesus did for rest, eating, working—how did Jesus interact with the human limitations his body required of him? There aren’t too many instances where Christ’s humanity is mentioned, but there are a few. Just like everything in Christ’s life, it gives us something we can learn.

An interesting concept that stands out as it relates to Christ and taking breaks is the idea of removing ourselves. He either removed himself to be completely alone, or he removed himself to be completely alone with his disciples. Perhaps this seems obvious to us that rest requires separating ourselves from others to some extent, but in practical ways, we almost never do it. Since our version of a break is so often connected to our phones, and particularly, connected to social media, we are still very much connected to others. An important part of rest is therefore genuine removal from stressors and distractions—a real break from our phones.

Another interesting concept to take away from how Jesus rested is how often he was interrupted. Rest wasn’t more important than the needs of those around him. There is a subtle cultural shift happening in western civilization today that emphasizes rest, mental health, relaxation, and so-called "Zen" even at the expense of God’s mission and glory. It is very easy to make life so comfortable that we become incapable of doing things that make us uncomfortable. Our homes become our oasis, and hardly anyone gets allowed inside. We seek out churches and Christian activities that require the least of us, with comfy chairs, comfy coffee, comfy music, and comfy sermons.

The final observation is that Jesus rested one of two ways: sleep and prayer. Perhaps today, instead of taking a break with my telephone, I will follow Christ’s example and take a break with him. I am curious to see how it refreshes me.

Rest is unbelievably important. How we rest is essential to getting refreshed and continuing in good work. Christ didn’t seem to rest that often; at least the gospels don’t record many accounts of it, but when he did, he gave us something to learn.