In Leviticus 25, God commands the people to honor the land by letting it rest from planting and pruning every seven years. This is similar to the decree given in Deuteronomy 5, where the people are told to honor God and themselves by keeping the seventh day as a Sabbath of rest.
Some interpret these instructions very literally, and follow strict guidelines for resting on the Sabbath as God rested after creating the world. For me, the sabbatical is a time to step back from the stress and the pressure of the daily work routine and do things for myself or my family and friends.
The long Memorial Day weekend has given me some much needed sabbatical time. Yesterday I was able to spend some time cooking for myself and friends. Today was spent planting flowers, weeding the vegetable garden and trimming bushes that been experiencing spring overgrowth. Tomorrow I plan to see an afternoon movie.
The best thing I did was to not think about work, the economy, downsizing or doing more with less. Instead I’ve been taking a few days to just care for and enjoy creation and be thankful for what I have been given, and not worry about what I may have to do without. I’ve been giving my mind and my soul a much needed sabbatical rest. I think that’s one good way to keep the Sabbath holy.
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