The clouds have drawn a veil over the Seattle area this morning, beckoning me to join my doggie beside the fire, reading a good book or New Yorker article, perhaps letting my eyes close. Why do I deny myself? What invisible force drives me to keep going, going, to produce more and more?
In her book Rest is Resistance, "The Nap Ministry" founder Tricia Hersey proposes that our willingness to give ourselves needed rest is actually a revolutionary act, resisting what she terms "grind culture".
For theologian Walter Brueggemann, the act of resting is tied to the Biblical concept of Sabbath, not just a day off from work, but a priority for our spiritual and justice development: "a visible insistence that our lives are not defined by the production and consumption of commodity goods". (Sabbath as Resistance, Westminster John Knox Press, 2017),
For me, the ability to rest well comes from actually listening to what's inside me, to the needs of my body and spirit, rather than denying those needs and working toward outward validation. And my sleep is not dormant! My creative mind continues to, without distractions, process problems and experiences so that I can move forward with integrity and wholeness.
In the Judeo-Christian sacred texts, rest is baked right into "the Beginning". In our story of creation, the seventh day, symbolic for completion, is devoted entirely to rest. Is that because the creator is tuckered out? I don't think so. Moreso, it is a time for taking stock, for processing, even for celebration! In the book (or books, there are actually 3!) attributed to the prophet Isaiah, a broad reaching narrative that spans the period from before, during and after the Hebrew exile, the author observes, "The whole earth is at rest and quiet; they break forth into singing" (14:7)
Ever feel like singing after a really good, drooly ol'nap?
In the book of Kings, the prophet Elijah, having gone through a rather tough time, is ready to give up; then he takes a nap under a broom tree, has a snack (albeit provided by angels!) and he's ready to rock again. Powerful!
Today (and many days) I'm reminded of the saying from the Gospel according to Matthew (11:28,29) that says: “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. . . for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Rest is gentle and honest; rest restores us. Dare we?
The sun came out later in the day, and I lay down in the hammock on our deck. All was quiet and at rest, and the birds broke forth into singing!
Be well, friends. Happy resting!
J+
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