By Rev. James L. Gale, Jr. EP Mid-South Presbytery –
In a culture that glorifies busyness and productivity, the idea of taking a break—truly resting—can feel almost subversive. Vacations often become mere changes of scenery where work emails follow, itineraries are packed, and the pressure to make every moment count overshadows the purpose of the break itself. Yet, if we reframe vacation through the lens of Sabbath, we can rediscover its power not only to rejuvenate the body but to restore the soul.
The concept of Sabbath originates from the biblical tradition—a command to rest on the seventh day, echoing the rhythm of creation itself. More than a rule, Sabbath is a gift: a holy pause from the relentless churn of work, a time set apart to reconnect with God, with others, and with oneself. Sabbath reminds us that our worth is not in our output but in our being. When embraced in its fullness, it invites reflection, delight, and deep rest.
Applying this to vacation, we move from the idea of mere leisure or escape to something sacred. A vacation-as-Sabbath isn’t about ticking off travel bucket lists or curating envy-inducing Instagram posts. It’s about stepping away from our normal routines to reconnect with what truly matters. It’s about embracing stillness and presence, letting go of the noise that often drowns out our inner voice and the voice of God.
This perspective transforms not only how we vacation but why. It challenges us to be intentional about our rest—to plan vacations that prioritize restoration over stimulation. For some, this might mean retreating to a quiet cabin in the woods, where silence becomes a spiritual companion. For others, it could be spending unhurried days with family, free from screens and schedules. The key is not the destination, but the posture of the heart.
Viewing vacation as Sabbath also offers a needed counter-narrative to burnout. In a world where exhaustion is worn as a badge of honor, rest becomes an act of resistance. Choosing rest says: I am not a machine. I am not defined by my productivity. I need time to breathe, to be, and to remember who I am beyond my job title or daily responsibilities. This kind of rest is not indulgent—it is essential.
Moreover, vacation as Sabbath can nurture creativity, deepen relationships, and renew our sense of purpose. When we step away, we gain perspective. We see with fresh eyes. We return not just refreshed, but transformed—more aligned with our values and more grounded in our identity.
In the end, vacation as Sabbath is not about running away from life, but returning to it more fully alive. It is a sacred invitation to rest, to be restored, and to remember that we are human beings, not human doings. As we learn to honor this rhythm, we not only care for our souls but also bear witness to a deeper truth: that rest is not a reward, but a rhythm woven into the fabric of a flourishing life.