Holiday time
THIS summer our family were disappointed when we had to cancel a holiday in Brighton.
This was because one of our family members was unwell. So imagine our excitement as we planned a holiday in France a few months later. We were all looking forward to it so much. Then imagine our horror when it turned out that Monarch airlines had gone bankrupt shortly before we were due to fly with them! Thankfully, during a stressful few days, we were able to re-book a flight with a different airline. We feel for the many others who weren’t so blessed.
Now it’s half-term in Leicestershire, hurray! Many of us will be enjoying doing something different this week. For some it is an opportunity to go away when most other UK children are still at school. For others it may mean looking after children or grandchildren. For those who work in education it is a well-earned break.
It is worth stopping to think about what makes for a healthy work-life balance. Christians believe that holidays and breaks are an essential part of life. Holidays don’t necessarily involve travelling but they include having a rest of some sort. According to the Ten Commandments we are to have one day of rest at least once a week. This commandment was lived out perfectly in the lifestyle of Jesus.
Often Jesus would go and find a quiet place even when there were huge demands for his teachings, miracles and wisdom. Jesus is a really good role model for a healthy lifestyle today.
Jesus also taught that spending time in Christian prayer brings refreshment and peace.
According to the disciple Matthew, Jesus said “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This means putting aside all distractions ( yes that even includes switching off phones, music, television, laptops etc,) and focussing on God in prayer.
It is easier said than done.
But many Christians have discovered that this is the key to knowing God’s peace in our lives- even in the midst of life’s troubles and challenges.
I hope we all enjoy the rest of this half- term.