Sabbath The Weekly Rhythm of Sabbath Reflection Guide
To receive the gift of Sabbath requires intentionality, especially at first. It is as if we are creating a walled garden — one wall at the start and one at the end of the time we’ve set apart. There’s no place for legalism in deciding what a true Sabbath activity is. But given how easy it is to feel pulled into “getting things done,” it helps to develop a clear plan for receiving the rest, worship and play God intends for us. Some thoughts that may help as we plan: •
A full Sabbath is 24-hours, but we can experiment with any block of uninterrupted time.
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While most Christians have practiced Sabbath on Sunday, other days can serve as well.
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A simple activity can help us to “enter” Sabbath, such as lighting a candle or reading a Psalm.
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Many people practice Sabbath sundown to sundown, while others experience it on a single day.
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Consider minimizing use of phones and other technology in order to maximize true refreshment.
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Different seasons of life may call for different ways of practicing Sabbath, each with unique blessings.
Q U ESTIO NS FO R R EF L EC T IO N Before answering these questions, pause and ask God, “Given my current stage of life, how would You lead me into weekly rest and refreshment?”
1. What thoughts or feelings have you associated with the idea of “Sabbath”? What thoughts/feelings arise as you consider it now?
2. If you don’t currently receive the gift of Sabbath on a regular basis, is there anything about doing so that strikes you as especially attractive? Anything that feels particularly daunting?
3. What are some expressions of rest, worship and/or play that you’d find especially life-giving on a Sabbath?
4. If you’re willing to receive this invitation, what steps will you likely need to take to receive the gift of Sabbath this month?