Burnout

Genesis 2:2-3

On the seventh day God was finished with his work which he had made, so he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. God blessed the seventh day and separated it as holy; because on that day God rested from all his work which he had created, so that it itself could produce.

God made a day of rest for a reason. He actually BLESSED the day and SEPARATED IT AS HOLY.

He knew that our bodies needed to stop.

Friends - the world is not resting as it should. The world doesn't know how to stop. It is causing major issues in health and relationships.

I know this is going to be controversial, but I need to say it anyway - the structure of "church" as we know it today does not condone rest. Yes, it is a different form of activity from your normal work day or week, but the simple fact that most who attend actively must "do something" to keep the church "running smoothly" and do these things because "a servant heart is required"... it doesn't give these people the opportunity to rest.

Shabbat rest... I found so much rest when I was able to celebrate Shabbat as it was intended. Conversations around a meal (we have to eat) and fun times either playing a game or taking a walk. Music playing... Maybe even a nap. Nothing forced. Just being and doing it in HIS presence because He is with us everywhere.

The culture in America is counter rest. Even in the church. It is causing burn out in pastors. It causes issues in families. The expectations placed is causing pain and heartache. I'm not saying community and getting together is bad, but I believe we need to rethink how it should happen. Our homes were established for a reason. Some day we may be forced to return to this type of gathering.

No one should be guilted into participating in something that will disrupt their inner being. If they are actively serving Him in other areas and ways, not attending church every week is not a sin. If they need to take Sunday as a day of rest because of activities throughout the week, don't judge. Community happens in many ways and forms. Worshiping our Creator can happen outside on a walk. Some people need that time to recharge so they can serve Him better the rest of the week.

I'm not trying to be difficult. Just challenging thoughts and ideas. We need to stop and return to HIS heart... He is our REST!

Love and blessings,

Rose