Sabbath
In a world that never stops, Sabbath is a radical act of resistance and a sacred invitation to reclaim our humanity. The word Sabbath (Shabbat in Hebrew) means to stop, to cease, to be done. It is a 24-hour period each week—traditionally from sundown to sundown—intentionally set apart as different from the rest of our time. It is a day for ceasing from work and striving, resting our bodies and minds, delighting in the goodness of life, and worshipping the God who holds all things together.
Sabbath is not just about switching off—it’s about tuning in. It is about deep connection: with God, with ourselves, with creation, and with others. It’s a day to savour slow meals with friends, worship together as a church, and enjoy unhurried time with those we love. Sabbath forms us into a different kind of people—people who resist the pull of hurry, accumulation, and achievement, and who live instead from a place of trust, joy, and presence.
This practice re-forms our hearts and realigns our lives with the Kingdom of God. It teaches us, week by week, that we are not what we do, what we own, or what others expect. It is a day to cease from work, anxiety and hurry—a day to practise eternity in time, and to live, however briefly, as if the kingdom of God were already here.
Resources
Sabbath Interviews from Sunday 25 May to conclude the series.
Recommended Reading:
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Keeping the Sabbath Wholly by Marva J. Dawn
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Sabbath as Resistance by Walter Brueggemann
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The Sabbath by Abraham Joshua Heschel
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The Sabbath by Dan Allender
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The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
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Sabbath in the Suburbs by MaryAnn McKibben Dana
Courses & Podcasts
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Sabbath Course – Practicing the Way
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Podcast: Rule of Life – Practicing the Way
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Rule of Life
Keeping the Sabbath: A practical guide for people exploring the Spiritual practice of Sabbath
Books
Practicing the Way - John Mark Comer
This book offers a practical guide to spiritual practices that help integrate faith into everyday life. Comer focuses on the concept of apprenticeship to Jesus, making it a good choice for those seeking a modern, accessible approach to spiritual formation.
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality - Peter Scazzero
Scazzero argues that true spiritual maturity must include emotional health, addressing how unprocessed emotions can hinder one's spiritual life. This book is ideal for those looking to deepen their spiritual journey by integrating emotional and spiritual well-being.
Disciplines of the Spirit - Howard Thurman
Thurman explores the inner life and the spiritual disciplines needed to cultivate a deep connection with God. His reflections are particularly appealing to those interested in the intersection of spirituality and social justice.
You Are What You Love - James K.A. Smith
Smith contends that our habits and loves shape who we are, urging readers to focus on spiritual practices that align their desires with the kingdom of God. This book is for those who want to understand how everyday practices influence their spiritual life.
The Deeply Formed Life - Rich Villodas
Villodas offers a comprehensive guide to spiritual formation, focusing on five transformative values: contemplative rhythms, racial reconciliation, interior examination, sexual wholeness, and missional presence. It's an excellent resource for those wanting a holistic approach to spiritual growth.
Sacred Rhythms - Ruth Haley Barton
Barton provides a guide to spiritual practices that help align your life with the presence of God. This book is suitable for anyone seeking a structured approach to integrating spiritual disciplines into their daily routine.
The Way of the Heart - Henri Nouwen
Nouwen draws on the wisdom of the Desert Fathers to explore solitude, silence, and prayer as pathways to spiritual renewal. This book is particularly relevant for those longing for a deeper contemplative practice in their spiritual journey.
Invitation to a Journey - M. Robert Mulholland Jr.
Mulholland provides a framework for understanding spiritual formation as the process of being shaped into the likeness of Christ. The book is particularly useful for those who appreciate a systematic approach to spiritual growth, emphasising that formation is a continuous journey rather than a one-time event.
Celebration of Discipline - Richard Foster
Foster's classic work provides a detailed exploration of the inward, outward, and corporate disciplines that foster spiritual growth. This book is often recommended for those seeking a thorough introduction to the spiritual disciplines.
The Spirit of the Disciplines - Dallas Willard
Willard presents a theological foundation for the spiritual disciplines, connecting them to the life of Jesus and the process of spiritual transformation. It's ideal for readers who want a deeper understanding of how spiritual practices shape their life in Christ.
After You Believe - N.T. Wright
Wright explores Christian character formation, discussing how believers can grow in virtue and fulfil their purpose in God's kingdom. This book is suited for those interested in the intersection of theology, ethics, and spiritual formation.
The Life You’ve Always Wanted - John Ortberg
Ortberg offers an accessible and practical guide to spiritual disciplines, encouraging readers to pursue authentic transformation rather than superficial spirituality. It's a great option for those looking to develop a sustainable and joyful spiritual life.