Ruthless Pursuit

“Just Stop”

Luke 4:14-16 & Mark 2:23-28

What do you want most out of life?  Unlimited desire + finite humanity = restlessness   “You have made us for yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.”
- Augustine

 Stopping for Sabbath rest:  (Luke 4:14-16)

1) It all begins with God. (Genesis 1:1)

a.    God works (1:3-26) and God rests (2:1).

b.    The first thing God makes holy is a period of time. (2:1-3)

2) Sabbath rest is about the journey of life God wants for you. (Exodus 16)

a. Sabbath rest requires anticipation and intentionality. (vs. 21-23)

b. Sabbath rest is more about imitating God than following rules. (vs. 24-27)

“Rest yourself before you wreck yourself.” – Kevin DeYoung, Crazy Busy

3) Sabbath rest is about resting in Christ. (Mark 2:23-28)

a. It’s more than physical rest.  It is spiritual rest for believers. (Hebrews 4:1-3a)

b. It is about trusting God. (Psalm 46:10)

“Fortunately for us, God breaks into our work and says, “OK, good job. Now it’s time to rest. Don’t worry, I’ll keep an eye on the universe.”

- Richard Swenson, The Overload Syndrome

4) How do you practice Sabbath?

a. Pick a time. (Genesis 1)

b. Prepare for that time. (Exodus 16)

c. Fill that time. (Mark 2)

d. Protect that time. (Psalm 46)

Final Thought:  What we make room for in our life shows what we value most in our hearts.  Make room for Sabbath.