As we move into autumn, my favorite time of the year, I’m reminded of a glorious fall day a few years ago when my youngest son and I spent several hours geocaching in the foothills north-east of town. We traipsed up lava-rock strewn hillsides and down thorny gullies, finally arriving on top of the world with a view that went on forever. Although we only found one of the caches we were after, the day was a complete success.

After weeks of stressful, over-filled days, having that time together in the open air, enjoying each other and God’s glorious creation, was a tonic. We were reminded of how important it is to just “be” in the moment with those we love.

Amid the challenges and demands of everyday life, such moments of R & R are so necessary to a renewed spirit and a refreshed body.  

Genesis 2:2 And by the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on that day He rested from all His work.

God set the example for us right from the start, knowing just how important rest would be for His people. He even included the admonition to “remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy” in His commandments.

Setting aside times to break from our routines, consider our blessings, and enjoy the beauties of Creation with those we love enrich our days and renew our spirits.

These days of rest are even more important in our hectic, over-stimulated modern lives.