Give Me A Break

Modern people have more labour-saving devices than we know what to do with. We have more leisure time than almost anyone in history. Yet, we always seem busy and over-worked. How can people with so much free time feel so burdened? This sermon helps address the problem of over-work by reflecting on the gift of Sabbath. Jesus reveals to us that we need rest in order to flourish as human beings. We also have a responsibility to help others flourish by giving them rest. Learn about the importance of weekly rest, and why making it a priority brings real blessings. Preached on the 11th Sunday after Pentecost, August 25, 2019 by Rev. Stephen Silverthorne Scripture Reference: Luke 13:10-17; Exodus 20:8-11; Deuteronomy 5:12-15 Sermon Highlights Sabbath confrontations are a regular part of Jesus' ministry Sabbath is a big deal Sabbath is a necessary part of human flourishing We have a responsibility to carve out time for genuine rest Sabbath is an act of service for others Sabbath brings opportunity to help others find rest Jesus confronts religious leaders because they keep others from being free We should model Jesus, who makes others more free through his ministry Further Reading We Have Ruined Childhood by Kim Brooks. In this New York Times article, the author argues that there is a connection between the decline in free time and the increase in sadness. For this she blames the economic pressures forcing parents to work long hours, as well as a society that has decided childhood isn't important except as a stepping stone to college Free Range Kids by Lenore Skenazy. The author argues that children benefit from free, unstructured time and from increased independence. Yet, our fears keep us from giving this to them. Drawing on facts, statistics, and humor, she convincingly argues that this is one of the safest periods for children in the history of the world, and so our fears are unreasonable. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.