Dear FUMC Family and Friends,

Fitness websites and blogs across the internet are touting its benefits. Fitbit’s blog posted an article on it from a leading fitness expert listing 6 reasons why it’s important. CNN published an article on it, citing doctors who emphasized its importance to health, and called it “a Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life.” What is this important health innovation that has everyone so excited? Would you be surprised to know that people of faith have been practicing this important piece of advice for over 4000 years? So, what is it? 

Modern fitness gurus call it a “stop day.” Our tradition calls it “Sabbath time.” It is the fourth of the 10 Commandments: “Remember the Sabbath and keep it holy.” What our faith has taught us and science has confirmed is that it is vital for our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health to stop each week and spend a day resting. 

We know that Sabbath is important, but we are not very good at it. The pressures of the world and the demands of our lives often cause us to stuff every moment of every day with activity. This constantly-on-the-go lifestyle has dire consequences for our lives and the lives of our families. So, this Lent, I encourage you to take Sabbath time. 

To aid you in this journey, I am providing you with some tips to incorporate Sabbath time into your routine.

1.    Attend worship weekly, either in person or virtually. Worship isn’t another task on your “to do” list; it is an opportunity to connect deeply with God, who is the source of your life. 

2.   Unplug for a day each week. There are many benefits to the internet and social media; however, a down-side is that we are always available to the world. Take 1 day each week to unplug. Just use your phone or internet to join us for worship and to call family and friends. Don’t use them to check your email or scroll social media. 

3.   Spend 15 minutes a day sitting quietly. This tip may seem impossible, especially if you have young children around, but it is important. Taking some Sabbath time each day centers your spirit, strengthens your patience, and restores balance. So, for 15 minutes each day, turn off the radio, shut off the TV, turn off the phone, find a comfortable place to sit, and spend time in silence. Fifteen minutes may seem like a long time, and you may need to build up to it. Start out with 3 minutes a day and add time each week until you reach 15 minutes a day.

I have talked to so many people who are feeling burned out. They feel that they are trapped on a merry-go-round with no way off. If you feel that way, there is hope. It begins with Sabbath time. Taking a day for rest each week will reconnect you to God and to yourself.

Blessings and Grace, Pastor Travis