Pastor Jim Melvin
Memorial Day felt really special this year. Not only did it mark the traditional beginning of summer, but it also marked the beginning of the summer we missed last year out enjoying more normal activities with the friends and family from whom we have been separated. It is even more important this year to fully utilize our vacation time.
In 2020, over 47% of Americans left earned vacation days on the table. Many others used their vacation to catch up on tasks they had been putting off that were sometimes more demanding than their real job. Research has shown that ignoring our vacations makes us less productive and eventually less healthy.
Even God too a day off. Genesis 2:1-3 says,
“Thus, the heavens and the earth were finished, and all their multitude. And on the seventh day God finished the work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work that he had done. So, God blessed the seventh day and hallowed it, because on it God rested from all the work that he had done in creation.”
You can do the same. The fourth commandment reflects God’s hallowing or making holy the sabbath. It says, “Remember the Sabbath day and keep it Holy.” I say, “Remember YOUR Sabbath.” Take some time to sit back, look back on the work you have done with satisfaction, and share some time of rest and relaxation especially with friends and family. Cherish and be thankful for the gifts and talents that God gave you to bring to the job and protect and nurture them by giving yourself a break.
Enjoy your sabbath. You have earned it.
