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A review by mhinnen
Embracing Rhythms of Work and Rest: From Sabbath to Sabbatical and Back Again by Ruth Haley Barton, Ruth Haley Barton
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
relaxing
slow-paced
4.5
"sabbath keeping is an act of resistance against a culture that brainwashes us into thinking that good things come only through unceasing determination, tireless human effort, and always being plugged in."
I read this book during my clergy sabbatical and wish I had picked it up sooner. To be sure, for many many people the idea of sabbath, one day off a week for worship, rest, and delight is aspirational. It simply cannot be incorporated into the lives of people who struggle to survive. Still, there are elements of this book that can be incorporated such as your relationship with technology, pausing to take a breath before shifting gears, gratitude at mealtime, and being present for your family with intentional planning. And if you are in a position to practice a day set apart and it's just that you feel your life is "too busy," this book is helpful to make a case - if nothing else because if you do not find a healthy rhythm, the grind will catch up to you and force you to rest.
The book has biblical grounding as well as practical observations such as the importance of setting boundaries and being consistent. The first section has practical implications for most people who are looking to practice sabbath, but the rest of it really is for church leaders (I feel like this would be a great ordination gift!)
l purchased the accompanying journal which was not necessary, but it is attractive and a nice way to write down my reflections based on the prompts.
I read this book during my clergy sabbatical and wish I had picked it up sooner. To be sure, for many many people the idea of sabbath, one day off a week for worship, rest, and delight is aspirational. It simply cannot be incorporated into the lives of people who struggle to survive. Still, there are elements of this book that can be incorporated such as your relationship with technology, pausing to take a breath before shifting gears, gratitude at mealtime, and being present for your family with intentional planning. And if you are in a position to practice a day set apart and it's just that you feel your life is "too busy," this book is helpful to make a case - if nothing else because if you do not find a healthy rhythm, the grind will catch up to you and force you to rest.
The book has biblical grounding as well as practical observations such as the importance of setting boundaries and being consistent. The first section has practical implications for most people who are looking to practice sabbath, but the rest of it really is for church leaders (I feel like this would be a great ordination gift!)
l purchased the accompanying journal which was not necessary, but it is attractive and a nice way to write down my reflections based on the prompts.