PAUSE FOR CHANGE

In the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of solemn rest for the land – Leviticus 25:4

The phenomenon of the Leap Year derives from the fact that the earth’s solar orbit takes 365 and a quarter days. Every four years, an extra day is added to the calendar – the end of February – in order not to fall behind in the natural cycle of things. In this way, the calendar is readjusted to the astronomical timetable.

In the calendar of ancient Israel, Jehovah instituted a notable means of readjusting lives and lands. Just as humankind was commanded to rest every seventh day, so the land was to be allowed to rest during the seventh year (Exo.20:8-10; Lev.25:4). This sabbatical year allowed the farmland to replenish for greater fertility and higher productivity. Also, debts were cancelled and slaves were set free (Dt.15:1-11; 12-18).

With the busy schedules and hectic pace of modern life, we too need rest and readjustment. The demands of family, work, and church call for re-evaluation. One way to do this is by observing the Sabbath principle – making sure to set aside time to rest and prayerfully refocus our priorities. The Lord of Sabbath left us an example: He “went to a solitary place; and there He prayed” (Mk.1:35). He who established and practised this principle of Change is admonishing you: “to face life’s many challenges and overcome each battle, take the time to pause, pray, and rest.”

RHYTHM in the light, not RUSH through the darkness, is what life demands. It is good to PAUSE from the rushing gusts of carnal existence and allow busy to take a break from chasing or driving you. Quit the rat-race. There is a place to “un-rush” your pace and discover your real priorities and purpose. Disconnect from the RUSH mode and connect to divine RHYTHM.

Beloved, the Lord is urging you right now: “PAUSE in order to PRAY, PLAN, and PRIORITIZE afresh.” Pull aside from your neck-breaking agenda of activities and “busyness” and prayerfully ask the Lord to reset your spiritual calendar to align with His Word and His will. This may be your time of divine realignment, your season for spiritual readjustment. Don’t jettison this opportunity.