From the Pulpit: Sabbath rest is the key to revived spirits

Then Jesus said, “Let’s get away from the crowds for a while and rest.” There were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat. — Mark 6:31.

Here are some thoughts I learned from a friend:

“I just don’t have enough time!”

Maybe you’ve thought or said these words in exasperation or despair. Maybe, as a spiritually committed person, you are trying to remember that we al have our limits … and yet the demands seem so great.

Juliet Schor, economist and author of “The Overworked American,” reported work hours and stress levels are going up, and we are sleeping less and spending less time with our families. Schor adds, we feel there is no way out.

Then we go to church, where at least for a couple of hours we won’t be given more responsibilities or more guilt. The sermon is on Sabbath — how we yearn for it and how impoverished we are for not having it in our lives. The minister reminds us Sabbath stood at the very heart of Judaism, and it is also available to Christians, even though we’re no longer under the old Law.

The practice of Sabbath rest — six days of work, followed by one of rest — is woven into the fabric of the Bible.

Before we go on, please understand I’m not saying all of Jesus’ followers need to stop worshiping God on Sunday and worship on Saturday. Jesus is Lord over the Sabbath, and we know God blessed the Sabbath as a day set aside for rest and refocusing on God’s glory, deliverance and holiness. Scripture teaches that a “Sabbath-rest” for the people of God exists — and that entry can be given to those who need rest from their own work.

What about when Satan’s snares, the cares of this world, worries over the souls of loved ones, personal sins and weaknesses seek to rob one of the joys of Jesus’ companionship on the journey? How can one gain the strength for the battle, moment by moment?

I want to give you an honest answer. I’m hoping you will find bread for the journey and refreshing springs of water to quench your thirst while you worship Jesus, our Lord and best friend.

Here is what I believe about the Sabbath: Refreshment of my faith is a gift Jesus gives when I try to encourage, teach, mentor or help someone else; family, friend, co-worker, the clerk at the check-out counter, or the person in the next lane at the stoplight.

The one who gives from the heart receives from the heart.

Eugene Strickland is the Director of Missions for the Okaloosa Baptist Association.