Suggestions for Sabbath-Living (Everyday)

This afternoon while searching for a file on my computer, I stumbled upon this list of Sabbath-living suggestions in a newsletter from the Henri Nouwen Society (Winter 2008). Good reminders to make space for Sabbath rest throughout the week.

He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. 

 ~ Psalm 23 

• Light candles -at dinner, when you read or during a bath. Say a blessing as you light it and let it remind you of the Holy Spirit’s presence and comfort.
• Set aside thirty minutes each day for Sabbath. Do something restful or nourishing during this time--pray, read scripture or other sacred texts, walk outdoors, nap, or enjoy a favorite drink. Spend this time in a place of beauty.
• Spend a few moments outside each day just looking and noticing God’s creation.
• Don’t answer the phone between 5 and 8pm.
• When you wake up in the morning, give yourself time to review your dreams before getting out of bed.
• Turn off the radio and the phone when driving your car.
• Take a monthly retreat day at a local monastery or retreat center.
• Set aside one evening a week to have a Sabbath meal. Invite friends over. Make the food yourself. Light candles. Say a prayer of blessing and gratitude. Make it a joyful time of conversation and good food.
• Declare a “silent hour” at some point during the day.  Spend the time in silence alone, or with others, reading, praying, or doing other creative activities.
• Set designated evenings as “television-free.”
• Consecrate one day a week as a Sabbath day. Spend the day resting, playing, praying and enjoying your family. Turn off the TV and other entertainment devices. Don’t work or run errands. Nap. Take walks. Eat good food. Read. Spend time with friends.

Dear God, Speak gently in my silence. When the loud noises of my surroundings and the loud inner noises of my fears keep pulling me away from you, help me to trust that you are still there even when I am unable to hear you. Give me ears to listen to your small, soft voice saying “Come to me, you who are overburdened, and I will give you rest . . . for I am gentle and humble of heart.” Let that loving voice be my guide. Amen
~ Henri J. M. Nouwen, With Open Hands

Taken from: Henri Nouwen Society Newsletter (Winter 2008)
http://www.henrinouwen.org/