It’s still early on Saturday morning, but I’m thinking about my day. There are so many things vying for my attention today, but I’m going to sit here for awhile in the early morning light, enjoying my coffee and my daughter’s art display.⁣

As anticipated, this has been quite week. In the midst of constantly watching for election results and a rigorous season in my work as a pastor in the congregation I serve (plus this fun and energizing endeavor), our home feels less like a sanctuary and more like a giant to-do list. But I desperately need some sabbath rest. I need to stop being productive and tap into the creative renewing energy of the Divine.⁣

In order to prepare the way for that Saturday sabbath, I’ve decided that I’m setting my timer to do 90 minutes of computer work to clear my brain of looming tasks. Then I’m going to clean the kitchen all the way, again as preparation. Then I’m going to lean into an afternoon and evening of sabbath that focuses on what energizes me. Here are some of my possibilities:⁣

• Baking a pie—there are rhubarb and raspberries in our freezer that are calling my name. I love getting lost in the familiar ritual as I move through the steps. It’s so tangible and satisfying—plus the house will smell amazing!⁣

• Making some homemade caramels as the season of sharing is almost upon us.⁣

• Sitting down at the puzzle set up in our basement with my family and not worrying about the time.⁣

• Heading outside to enjoy the unseasonably warm weather and the beauty of God’s good creation.⁣

How about you? What would bring you sabbath rest this weekend?

Please share in the comments below. ⁣