633 sligo avenue, silver spring, md 20910
633 sligo avenue, silver spring, md 20910
Rev. Susan G. Astarita
July 30, 2006
Dear Friends:
An article in a newsletter from a neighboring church reminds me about the concept of Sabbath time. Mid-summer, as we journey at a slightly slower pace, we can reflect upon this notion.
Sabbath time is a time set aside to nourish activities of self-enhancement, contemplation, conversation. Sabbath time, Tilden Edwards writes in his book of the same name, is "a practice of receptive time that balances and permeates our active time." It is a time of leisure and re-creation as the ancients understood those terms.
By Sabbath time we do not mean vacation, but a period of time during the day, once a week, an entire day or simply in a few brief moments when we can truly appreciate ourselves and the presence of God. Yes, Sabbath time may be spent with family and friends, or alone, but it is time spent acknowledging that all life is God's gift to us.
How to begin the practice of Sabbath time; that's our challenge! My advice: start with a small available window, then open it wider as you become more disciplined. Some busy people I know make the minutes they spend in the shower their Sabbath time. Some use time spent in a regular commute by car or subway for spiritual reading or Sabbath time. Over a short period, you will most likely find your space and be able to move into an intentional rhythm of activity and rest.
Tilden Edwards continues, "using Sabbath rhythm and discipline we can pray over the years it will help the Holy Love of God touch those cramped places of spiritual energy in our lives and release us for ever deeper, wiser, more steady and bold praise and ministry."
May this summer of 2006 be the beginning of your Sabbath time practice!
Faithfully in Christ,
Mother Susan +