2020 Ministry Vision
Why Does Life Seem So Restless?
For our world, the hustle and non-stop pace of life seems totally normal. But I don’t think we can enter the Kingdom of God at break-neck speeds. There’s a better way.
“Sabbath” is a word that literally means “stop.” It comes from the Hebrew Shabbat. But it’s more than just a moment of inactivity, or a break from the fast pace of the world—Sabbath is a way of life.
In fact, it is so essential to human flourishing that God made the fourth commandment is about Sabbath. Life built on a rest in God is one that really takes hold of Jesus invitation to all those who were exhausted, burned out, and restless:
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
This year our parish is focusing our attention on learning the sacred rhythms and practices of a sabbath life. Here’s how we put what we’re after:
Opening up space in our lives to be renewed in the sabbath life of God and become a people of rest for the sake of others.
Let’s unpack this a little.
Opening up space
Sundown-to-sundown pattern for Sunday, and the rest of our lives
Intentional rest Saturday night
Keeping Sunday open for Church life
Intentional restful practices and retreats
To be renewed in Sabbath life
Abide, pray, rest, and return to our strength in Christ
Intentionality in liturgy (preaching, music, reflection)
Explore sabbath themes in Catechism
Practice sabbath rhythms (in TG and family)
Write a personal (or family) rule of life
Practice noticing the presence of God
Wednesday evening prayer
And becoming rest for others
The gift of sabbath for a weary world
Intentionality to serve with your gifts
Learning to serve and rest well
Discerning intentional practices for others
Patterns to look for in sabbath practices
All year we’ll be reflecting on how we can learn the sabbath life with the Master, Jesus. Really, this is a question that everyone has to ask of their own lives: How do I pattern my life in alignment with Jesus? Sabbath practices help us to open up space to do that, and bring intentionality to our discipleship.
As you consider sabbath patterns of life this year, here are a few markers that help you know you’re on the right path. Look for sabbath practices that are:
Sacred Is this connecting me to God's life?
Simple Is this light and sustainable?
Slow Does it require patience?
Journey with us
Stay in touch and involved as we journey together in 2020. Worship with us on Sundays, check out our sermons, join our catechism class, enjoy Table Group discussions, and attend events.
Also, on social media use the tag #asabbathlife
Take a look at our booklet from our 2020 All Church Meeting
More Resources
There are a few really great books we’ve benefitted from already in our study of A Sabbath Life. Here are just a few of the best:
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
