Finding Rest Together

The Sabbath Together Pillar

"Come with Me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." — Mark 6:31

After pouring ourselves into the women at our Return to the King retreat in Kentucky, Bill and I did something we desperately needed. We rested. Not for a few hours. Not for one evening. But for an entire week. And what a gift it was.

We headed west into the beautiful mountains of West Virginia, where God reminded us once again that He is the greatest Artist of all. Our first stop was Summersville Lake.

The water was unlike anything we had ever seen, crystal clear with the most beautiful shades of turquoise. We spent hours kayaking, swimming, and simply enjoying the peacefulness that surrounded us.

From there we traveled to Blackwater Falls, where we hiked scenic trails, stood in awe of breathtaking overlooks, and admired panoramic views that seemed to stretch forever. Everywhere we looked, creation declared the glory of God.

Then we made our way to Shenandoah Valley Campground in Virginia. Once again, we found ourselves on the water, kayaking down a beautiful river and discovering a small waterfall tucked along the way. The campground itself felt like a peaceful retreat. Little bunnies hopped around the grounds. Our grandchildren came to visit, laughing as they threw rocks into the river and played in the water. That evening we gathered around a campfire, talking, laughing, and simply enjoying being together. It wasn't a vacation filled with schedules or endless activities. It was a Sabbath.

So often we think of rest as something we earn after we've finished everything on our list.

But the truth is, the list is never finished. There will always be another email. Another project. Another responsibility. Another ministry opportunity. Another household chore.

If we're not intentional, we'll keep postponing rest until "someday." Bill and I have learned that Sabbath isn't a reward. It's a rhythm. And every time we protect that rhythm, our marriage grows stronger.

From the very beginning, God established the pattern of Sabbath. Not because He grows weary. But because we do. Jesus continually invited His followers to step away from the crowds and spend time with Him. He knows our hearts need renewal just as much as our bodies need rest. The Lord pampers His Bride by inviting us into His presence, where we find peace, restoration, and strength.

When husbands and wives intentionally Sabbath together, they reflect that same invitation. They remind one another that life is about more than accomplishing tasks.

It's about enjoying the Giver of every good gift.

As I look back on our week, I don't just remember turquoise waters or mountain views.

I remember holding Bill's hand. Paddling side by side. Watching our grandchildren laugh.

Sitting quietly around a campfire. Standing together as we admired God's creation. Those moments didn't happen because we were productive. They happened because we were present. And presence is one of the greatest gifts we can give our spouse.

This week, don't wait for the "perfect" vacation. Protect time for one another.

Take a walk. Watch a sunset. Build a campfire. Kayak a river. Sit on your porch.

Read Scripture together. Pray together. Rest together. Because when you intentionally Sabbath together, you're not stepping away from your marriage, you're investing in it.

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