FOCUS ON THE VISION
DENISE WALTON
“The Sabbath,” by Abraham Joshua Heschel, describes Sabbath practices such as a regular weekly rhythm of rest, time for reconnecting with the sacred, festive meals with loved ones, the nurturing of community life, study of holy wisdom and sacred text, attention to beauty, and honoring intimacy.
Here are a few questions for your consideration:
- As you consider the matter of time, what does it mean to be countercultural?
- As a disciple of Jesus Christ, are you regularly engaged in Sabbath keeping?
Consider keeping a journal for one week and note your experience, with intentionally taking time for Sabbath. Be creative, as there are many ways to engage in Sabbath (worship, rest, solitude, physical activities, relational activities with family and friends, engaging in a hobby, etc.).
Finally, share your experience with one other person and encourage them to consider taking Sabbath time.
Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work. But the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God; you shall not do any work – neither you, your son or daughter, your male or female slave, your livestock, or the alien resident in your towns. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but rested the seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and consecrated it. Exodus 20:8-11 NRSV
Dear Lord, may it be so!
Rev. Denise Walton serves as the Assistant to the Bishop for Connectional Ministries. Contact her at denise@sgaumc.org.
