The Valley of Vision is a devotional which contains this prayer. As you read it, keep in mind that “Immanuel” means God-with-us and is one of the names of Jesus:

“Assure us that we shall at last enter Immanuel’s land, where none is ever sick and the son will always shine.”*

That will be great… one day.

But before we get there, the one day per week which we have set aside for rest and worship is meant not only to refresh our bodies and minds, but to whet our mental and spiritual appetites for the greater and more permanent rest and refreshment of heaven.

The fourth commandment says: “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy” (Exodus 20:8).

Some of you are doing that well. Others, not so much. So here are some suggestions: 

-Worship God no matter what
-Plan meals that are easy
-Do the dishes tomorrow
-Prep Monday morning chores on Saturday evening
-Limit screen time (because physical rest without mental rest isn’t really rest)
-Do something outside (in nature, if possible)
-Play a game
-Take a nap
-Listen to some uplifting music
-Call or visit a friend
-Take the kids to a park
-Have a movie night
-Go to bed early
-Pray through a psalm

You’re right. It’s an adjustment. And it takes some planning. You won’t get it right right away.

But it will be holy. 

One day we will at last enter Immanuel’s land. Until then, let’s think about it often, and let’s observe one day a week which works its own sort of healing, and in which the Son will always shine.

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Notes:

–Today’s devotional is connected to my latest sermon called Heaven’s Appetizer. Click here to watch or listen.

–*Arthur Bennett, ed., The Valley of Vision (Carlisle: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1975), 387.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.