Sabbath?

A friend and I were talking, this week, about "Sabbath."  We remind each other we need to make SURE and take our "Sabbath" time.  Clergy are working on the "Sabbath" where others are worshiping.  We, or at least I, try to take Sabbath on a different day of the week.  I also try to be in worship, especially where Communion is happening, when ever I can.  I really enjoy being able to worship, instead of leading worship, and being able to receive Communion.  It is a time of renewal and thanksgiving celebration for me.  My friend, and I, actually check in with each other weekly to remind ourselves of the self care needed as "caregivers."

The Scripture, this week, is Exodus 20 where Moses is receiving the 10 Commandments.  Putting God first is the first one.  Making sure to have no other gods is next and remembering NOT to use God's name 'in vain' is there too.  The next Commandment, number 4, is to "remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy."  God is pointing out the need to STOP and rest.  Our bodies need time to eat, and sleep, but especially to stop and be with God.  Time to worship, praise and thank, and then spend time with God.  We need to do this with others, in a regular time of worship AND individually studying God's Word and spending time with God..

Is this easy, as Caregivers to do? NO!!  Is it needed?  YES!!  When I ask people, especially those who recognize themselves as caregivers, if they are taking time to be with God the response I get is "that sounds like a really good idea."  When asked if they are "doing it" the answer is "no, but it IS a good idea."  They understand the need of the strong relationship with God but trying to find the "new" schedule is a "say what?!" laugh.   It is time to move "forward" into the "new" and celebrate, with thanksgiving, time with God - in worship with others and by ourselves.