The tradition of the Sabbath is a long-standing practice in the Christian faith, with its origins being rooted at the very beginning of creation. For many Western Christians, the practice of the Sabbath takes place on Sunday and involves attending church, fellowshipping with family and friends and resting for the week to come.
Attempting to practice Sabbath as a busy student can be tricky. With papers, tests, work, and balancing friendships there can be times when there seems to be no room in one’s schedule for rest. Despite how hard it might be to find time to rest and refresh, practicing Sabbath can reap many benefits for the busy student.
The practice and structure of the Sabbath is so that Christians rest. In one article, Pastor J.D Greear explains the theology of the Sabbath when he writes, “Christianity often feels like more stuff to do. But according to Jesus, the core of the Christian experience is rest.”
As students of faith, it can seem that there is too much to do. Not only are we expected to balance academic life, but we are also expected to balance relationships, and extracurriculars and maintain a healthy spiritual life. The brunt of these expectations can often become too much – and can lead a student to quickly feel burnt out.
The practice of the Sabbath provides a break from the weight of responsibilities that so many students have. Taking a day to rest, refresh, and recalibrate might look different for different people. For some, it might mean taking a complete day off of homework and responsibilities. For others it might mean taking a walk outside, going to church, or visiting with friends. All are means of rest and recuperation, and a way of practicing the Sabbath.
As difficult as it can be to find the time to practice Sabbath, it is a helpful tool in allowing students to avoid burnout, and also refocus their spiritual lives. Too many students can wrap their identities up in their academics and their activities. Practicing Sabbath provides the student a break from the busyness of life and a reminder that their self-worth is found in one that is higher and more important than homework and grades.
