Does God want me to set aside time for play?

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Psalm 23:1-3The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.These familiar verses strike a chord when we realize the calm and playful tone of the shepherd’s dealing with the sheep. The flock is never driven or harassed. There is good living under God’s guidance.Leviticus 23:3“You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of complete rest, an official day for holy assembly. It is the Lord’s Sabbath day, and it must be observed wherever you live.”God set aside one day in seven to rest, to break the routine of work. It is time given to you by God to enjoy him and others more fully.Mark 6:31Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.Everyone needs time away periodically for rest and refreshment. Even Jesus experienced this need.Matthew 25:23“The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’”Task-oriented individuals tend to neglect the opportunity to play and celebrate. The Bible teaches us that celebration is both important and necessary. It gives us the opportunity to savor rest from work, to experience the satisfaction of accomplishment, and to enjoy the good things of creation. It creates a spirit of gratitude and renews our energy for the tasks ahead.

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