Dear Church Family,

Hopefully we’re at the end of the beginning – the return to work, where available, and school has begun. But we are not yet at the beginning of the end, with no vaccine yet. The prospect of having to stay alert; adapt to new circumstances; and keep up with the pace of change remains.

All the more important to rest well. God’s pattern of 6 days on one day off is a good one. 

The Lord rested on the 7th day after creating everything. That doesn’t mean He did nothing. He is constantly sustaining all that He has made. Rest is the peace of enjoying our work in God’s creation. 

The seventh day never ended. It is a special gift of the Lord to remind us that we are eternal. A day to step back to see the eternal perspective, and to be with the Lord who was and is and is to come.

The seventh day was given when the Israelites were released from slavery in Egypt. It’s to remind us that we are free not to work.

During the French Revolution, in 1793, France briefly adopted a 10 day week, to deconstruct the influence of Christianity in France. But with fewer days off it wasn’t popular, and Napoleon dropped it seven years later.

How to rest with C-19 around is a challenge. Each day is similar for many of us. These words of Jesus help:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, 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.”

(Matthew 11:28-29)

Being with the Lord is the best rest available. We were made by Him and for Him. To be with him is rest, even when circumstances are not restful.

Make the 7th Day special – join me and the rest of the HRS family for Online Church at 10:45 Sunday morning on YouTube

Your brother in Christ,

Ian