| For almost 20 years I have been part of a group of clergy who have worked hard to form and maintain a proper Sabbath boundary. Born out of a recognized need in our own lives, we started meeting a few times each year for study, service, and relaxation. Eventually, we started teaching other clergy groups how to maintain a healthy balance between work, family, and self-identity. The need for a proper balance is not limited to clergy, it is a human need and one that most struggle to maintain. How many people perceive their sense of self from what they do? Their work defines them and they can’t perceive anything other than their work. Unfortunately, when work fades, the house of cards comes tumbling down. It is incredibly difficult to rebuild a new identity when for years it has been nonexistent because one has only viewed things through the lens of a job. As backward as it sounds, taking time for yourself to create and maintain a healthy balance makes someone more productive in their profession. People are more focused when there is a healthy balance between work, rest, and play. When there is a healthy balance, people are happier, more relaxed, and less anxious. Work is something one does; it is not who one is. Though it takes effort and time to establish Sabbath boundaries, it is well worth it. A person’s real strength and wisdom are knowing when boundaries need to be established. Ask God to help you establish what God wants to give to you—a life of balance of work, rest, and play.  This Week’s Readings: *Monday – 1 Peter 4 *Tuesday – 1 Peter 5 *Wednesday – 2 Peter 1 *Thursday – 2 Peter 2 *Friday – 2 Peter 3 Prayer Requests: *Teachers, students, and parents coping with anxiety. *Heal those who are sick and protect those who are not. *Comfort those who are grieving and in distress. *Wisdom for our leaders as they navigate through uncertain times. *Guidance for those seeking to find their way. *Continued Growth Inside and Outside the Walls of St. Paul UMC. |
| “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6 |