A Call to REST

This past month, some pastors' wives and other women in ministry discussed just how difficult it is to find true sabbath-style rest on the Lord's Day (Sunday) with all we do to make sure the church lights are on, all the programs have workers (often us), and more. We worship, yes. But do we rest? Not always. We often get hit up left and right, and feel drained by ministry, as much as we love it. Pouring out, yes, but are we making sure to get filled back up? That's where my author friend, Keri Wyatt Kent comes in. She offered to send me a complimentary review copy of her recent book release, simply entitled Rest. What I have learned is that God wants to take our ordinary and make it extraordinary by giving us the opposite of our normal. If we are hectic and busy, true rest involves being still and slimming down the schedule. If we are stressed, true rest is calm. If we are in a rut, true rest gives us something new. If we work most waking hours, He wants us to learn to enjoy entertainment and play. If we are drained, true rest refreshes. That's what I'm learning as I read Keri's book. Here's more info:


Rest: Living in Sabbath Simplicity by Keri Wyatt Kent explores what it means to live in “Sabbath simplicity” by focusing on six aspects of Sabbath as spiritual practice: resting, reconnecting, revising, pausing, playing, and praying. Readers learn to slow down and find joy and meaning in the midst of their hectic lives.

Keri Wyatt Kent invites readers to rediscover the ancient practice of Sabbath in this practical and accessible book. Kent’s experiences as a retreat leader and a journalist collide as she offers true, interview-based stories along with scripturally based advice and guidance on how to live in a rhythm of work and rest she calls “Sabbath simplicity.” Based on what Jesus taught about Sabbath and how he practiced it, Kent explores six aspects of Sabbath as Christian spiritual practice: resting, reconnecting, revising, pausing, playing, and praying. These are the antidote to our restlessness, isolation, and our hurried lives, workaholism, and self-absorption. Living a nonlegalistic, sanely paced, God-focused life leads us to freedom and grace, joy and connection. A group study guide is included, making this book an excellent choice for small groups.

For more info about REST, click here.