Sabbath Solace

Lately I’ve been reflecting quite a bit on the beginning.  The beginning of a lot of things.  The beginning of my faith walk.  The beginning of my time in Stoke-on-Trent.  The beginning of my relationship with the woman who would be my wife.  The beginning of my marriage.  The beginning of the end of my time in Stoke-on-Trent.  The beginning of my time here in Little Hulton.  Of course the most important beginning I’ve been considering is the beginning of it all – y’know Creation.

Times are not completely settled as yet and with being snowed in for the majority of the week, there’s been almost a siege-like mentality that’s prevailed with the Dryden family safely ensconced within our new home only braving the great outdoors for essential provisions.  Yet the week has seen us entertain Authrine’s family friends and also seen me return to Stoke-on-Trent for work before returning back to inches and inches of snow back home.  I’ve had a fascinating time getting to grips with understanding my daughters further as well as achieving the state of contentment when it comes to effective harmonious relations with the household.

Over that time I’ve learnt a bit more about the state of humanity and how sad things can get when that sense of balance and a firm foundation on which to build life is established.  We’ve watched some stuff on Elvis that the BBC have put on our screens.  It’s all incredibly sad that this guy was idolised by many when his own life was out of kilter.

All of that makes me approach this time of rest appreciating some vital things about life.  It is a gift given by one who took great pleasure in spending six days to put it together, but then rested on the seventh day.  In the same way the pattern was set where likewise work could be ceased and perspective could be given on life’s issues.  The world will run on fine without us, that’s how it was created.  The real deal is whether we’ll be around to appreciate it and the One who put it together.  Where there’s instability and uncertainty, Sabbath reminds us that there is an assurance in not being in charge of it all and not pursuing interests at our detriment, but enjoying all of life whether it’s in work or rest.

Not being in charge, but relating to the One who is, takes the pressure off.  With that relationship being the only key then there is solace to be found on this blessed day of rest – solace that informs life and brings us to that place of equanimity and shalom.  That sense is a foretaste of that which we are to full experience at a time to come, and also gives us that possibility to experience that during the week and those moments where clarity is lacking and friends are few.

For His Name’s Sake

Shalom

dmcd