Embracing Rest
In the whirlwind of life, where accomplishments and productivity often overshadow our need for rest, many of us struggle to listen to our bodies and souls. The recent challenges I have faced because of medical issues have brought to the forefront the biblical concept of rest—a notion both essential and often overlooked in our fast-paced society. Exploring rest through the lens of Jewish teachings and Christian beliefs reveals profound insights into God’s plan for our well-being.
1. Sabbatical Rest (Shabbat)
The weekly Sabbath, from Friday evening to Saturday evening, is a sacred call to rest. God Himself established this rhythm in creation. Genesis 2:2-3 (WEB) states, “On the seventh day, God finished his work which he had done; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had done. God blessed the seventh day, and made it holy, because in it he rested from all his work which he had created and made.” Shabbat provides a weekly opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation, reflection, and family connection. On this day, when all work stops, we remember that God values us as His beloved children, not for how much we produce.
2. Sabbatical Year (Shemittah)
God commands that the land in Israel lie fallow every seven years, allowing it to rest and revive. As Leviticus 25:4 (WEB) teaches, “But in the seventh year, there shall be a Sabbath of solemn rest for the land, a Sabbath to the LORD.” This principle invites us to consider our relationship to the earth and to our resources. Since the Lord rested on the seventh day, all of creation was also to rest on the seventh year. According to God’s promise, the sixth year would bring a large harvest, allowing the people to save food and prevent hunger in the seventh year. Giving our lands a break honors God’s gifts and the necessity of sustainable practices; this principle extends to our lives as well, as we need periods of rest for recovery.
3. Jubilee
The year after the completion of a seven times seven-year cycle (49 years), was also set aside to be a sacred time, a holy year. This was to be a Jubilee Year. Along with the land taking a rest, the people were to declare freedom for all inhabitants of the land during the Jubilee Year. This meant returning property to those who had to sell it because of their poverty, and releasing from slavery those who had sold themselves to pay off their debts. The Year of Jubilee represents a profound reset for society. According to some Jewish beliefs, 2025 is considered a Jubilee year. As Leviticus 25:10 (WEB) proclaims, “You shall make a proclamation of liberty throughout all the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a Jubilee to you; and you shall return every man to his possession, and you shall return every man to his family.” In our own struggles, this teaches the art of letting go—whether it be burdens we carry or past mistakes. The Jubilee emphasizes liberation and renewal, reminding us that rest can lead to new beginnings.
4. Rest in God
The act of resting itself subtly calls us to find peace by strengthening our relationship with God. Matthew 11:28-30 (TPT) beautifully captures this call: “Are you weary, carrying a heavy burden? Come to me. I will refresh your life, for I am your oasis. Simply join your life with mine. Learn my ways and you’ll discover that I’m gentle, humble, easy to please. You will find refreshment and rest in me.” This passage encourages us to release our burdens and trust in His sufficiency, discovering inner peace that transcends circumstances.
5. Physical Rest
Acknowledging our physical limits is essential for our overall health. Our bodies were not designed to work without end; we need rest and recuperation. Exodus 20:8-10 (WEB) shares, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. You shall labor six days, and do all your work; but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God.” Embracing physical rest is not a sign of weakness; rather, it is a crucial aspect of honoring our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit.
6. Spiritual Rest
Spiritual rest involves nurturing our souls through worship, Bible study, and connection with God. Isaiah 40:31 (TPT) tells us, “But those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not get tired; they will walk and not become weary.” Engaging in spiritual disciplines allows us to hear God’s voice, drawing us into a deeper relationship with Him, which enriches our journey toward a restful spirit. For some, spiritual rest may include fasting, journaling, or a set-apart time of sabbatical.
7. Rest through Community
Finally, we must not overlook the power of community in our quest for rest. Proverbs 27:17 (WEB) emphasizes, “Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens his friend.” Engaging with others who can support, uplift, and bring joy is vital to our emotional and spiritual health. In sharing our burdens and victories, we foster a culture of mutual encouragement, allowing God’s rest to flow through us collectively.
Conclusion
In a world that often equates rest with inactivity or unproductiveness, let us embrace the biblical understanding of rest as a gift from God. From Shabbat to Jubilee, we see a tapestry woven with grace, teaching us the value of restoration—of ourselves, our communities, and our relationship with God. As you navigate your journey, may you find the courage to step back, listen to your body, and lean into the rhythms of divine rest. After all, trusting in God’s timing and methods might be the most fulfilling act of faith we can undertake.
Let’s Pray
Dear God, as we gather in this moment, we thank You for the gift of rest and renewal. Help us honor Your sacred times of rest, allowing them to enrich our lives with peace and reflection. May Your Spirit inspire us to seek justice, restore balance, and cultivate community. As we journey through life’s challenges, grant us the strength to pause, reconnect, and embrace our spiritual essence. May we always find comfort in Your presence and wisdom in Your guidance. It's in the mighty name of Yeshua, we pray. Amen.
Resources:
To learn more about shabbat, shemittah, or jubilee, consider exploring the following resources:
- My Jewish Learning (https://www.myjewshlearning.com)
- Chabad (https://www.chabad.org)
- Jewish Virtual Library (https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org)
