Genesis 2:2, "By the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on the seventh day He rested from all His work." Mark 6:31, "Then Jesus said, ‘Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest a while.' He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and His apostles didn't even have time to eat."

Think

Imagine a third-grader asking the teacher if it's okay to stay inside during recess because they need to do homework. Or, one kid saying to another, "I can't play right now because I've got too much to do." Absurd, right? Then why do we so often feel guilty about taking a much-needed break? It's as if we need permission to relax. Well, we have been given permission - from God Himself! After six days of creation, God rested. Was He tired? No, but He knew we would be. He rested so that we'd follow His example. He knew that if we didn't take a break, our schedules would break us! And Jesus knew the importance of hard work more than anyone, yet He understood that, without rest, our work would be ineffective. When His disciples returned from a tiring mission, He said, "Come, let's go take some time to rest." Let's think like children. Let's make time to waste time. Our kids need it and we do, too. It allows God to refresh and refuel our minds as well as inspire creativity. So, next time someone asks how you are, don't say, "Busy." Instead, tell them what you did during your time off. Permission granted!

Act

Make time for break time! Get outside and toss a frisbee, play board games, or take a nap. Whatever you decide, relax and have fun!

Pray

Dear Lord, Thank You for modeling the importance of rest. Help me relax guilt-free so that I may return to my work refreshed and renewed. In Jesus' name, Amen!