Text Box: Very often when we read the Bible, we find ourselves in it. For example, I imagine that there are lots of us who could identify with this verse:  "But   (Your Name Here) was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made." --Luke 10:40 So much to do, and so little time to get it all done!  One humorist suggests a reason for why we're all tired. He says, "For a couple of years I've been blaming my fatigue on iron-deficient blood, on a lack of vitamins, on dieting, and a dozen other maladies. But now I've found out the real reason: It's because we're overworked. The population of this country is 237 million, of which 104 million are retired. That leaves 133 million to do the work of the entire nation. There are 85 million in school, which leaves 48 million to do the work. Of this, there are 29 million employed by the federal government, and 4 million are in the armed forces, and that leaves 15 million to do the work. Take from that total the 14,800,000 people who work for the state and city government, and that leaves 200,000 to do the work. There are 188,000 ill and in hospitals, so that leaves 12,000 to do the work. Now there are 11,998 people in prisons. That leaves just two people to do the work: you and me. And you're sitting there reading this newsletter! When we call America the land of opportunity, I wonder if that's a blessing or a curse. There are so many competing options and interesting things to do that we can become distracted or overwhelmed by trying to "do it all." Well, here's some Good News for you, straight from the Good Book. God says, "There are six days for work, but the seventh day is Sabbath, pure rest, holy to God." (Ex 31:15).  "Work six days and rest the seventh. Stop working even during plowing and harvesting." (Ex. 34:21). Do this, and see what God promises: "If you watch your step on the Sabbath and don't use my holy day for personal advantage, if you treat the Sabbath as a day of joy, God's holy day as a celebration; if you honor it by refusing ‘business as usual,' making money, running here and there–then you'll be free to enjoy God! Oh, I'll make you ride high and soar above it all. I'll make you feast on the inheritance of your ancestors. Yes! God says so!" (Isaiah 58: 13-14, The Message) Come with us on Sunday as we claim this blessing in worship. You need the rest and refreshment. God says so.  I'll see you on Sunday! Grace and peace, Pastor Pam