“God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work he had done in creation” (Genesis 2:3). The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains that “God’s action is the model for human action. If God ‘rested and was refreshed’ on the seventh day, man too ought to ‘rest’” (CCC 2172).
Rest supports our development and is essential for optimal human performance. A good night’s sleep helps us process our emotions, gain perspective, and transfer what we learn into memories. Although exercise is the stimulus for strength gains, tissue growth and repair actually occur when we rest. Can’t go on any further? Take a break. Feel like you’re coming down with something? Boost your immune system with a little rest.
In addition to restoring our minds and bodies, rest benefits our souls. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “Sunday is a time for reflection, silence, cultivation of the mind, and meditation which furthers the growth of the Christian interior life” (CCC 2186). Jesus calls us to rest in him. “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Resting in the Lord is a spiritual form of rest that brings us peace. When we give our worries, our doubts, our anxieties, our confusion, and our disturbances to Jesus, he fills us with his peace. “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
Resting in the Lord means trusting in God and depending on His providence. When we abstain from work on the Sabbath, we are celebrating His provision for us with gratitude by returning time to Him through prayer, worship, good works, and loving relationships. The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that “The institution of the Lord’s Day helps everyone enjoy adequate rest and leisure to cultivate their familial, cultural, social, and religious lives” (CCC 2184). Rather than identifying ourselves by the type of labor we do, we simply appreciate that we are the People of God.
“My soul rests in God alone” (Psalm 62:1-2). Pope Francis describes this type of rest as “the moment of contemplation, it is the moment of praise, not of evasion. It is time to look at reality and say: how beautiful life is!” Rest is a gift from God. Put yourself in His presence, and allow Him to work in you.
As we enter the 18th month of our spiritual personal training program, let’s take a moment to pause, review our progress, assess our current status, and determine where the Holy Spirit is leading us. This month, our “Weekly Challenge” section will guide us through this important rest interval. Be sure to comment on how our exercises have influenced your spirituality and how you hope to grow in faith in the future.
