This message explores what true rest looks like through Jesus’s claim to be Lord of the Sabbath in Mark 2. While Pastor Mark acknowledges that physical rest—sleep, vacations, time off—is important and necessary, he challenges the assumption that these forms of rejuvenation are enough. Drawing on research about seven types of rest, he argues that Jesus offers something deeper: restoration that comes not from cessation of work, but from participating in God’s work. Rather than a temporary escape from weariness, Jesus provides a sustained rest within the midst of life’s difficulties. The key insight is that true Sabbath rest comes through joining God in His work—serving the poor, feeding the hungry, caring for creation—not through attempting to merit God’s approval through our own efforts. The central question becomes: Are you chasing temporary rest, or have you entered into the life-sustaining restoration that comes from participating in God’s purposes?
Reflection Questions:
- What stuck out in today’s message? What did you find challenging and encouraging? Did you learn anything new?
- Read Mark 2:23–3:6. What are the Pharisees’ complaints about Jesus in this passage?
- Read 1 Samuel 21:1–6. How are David’s actions similar to the disciples’ actions in this Mark passage?
- What do you think Jesus meant when He said, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27)?
- What were the consequences of Jesus healing this man on the Sabbath?
- Where do you feel the tension between busyness, productivity, and genuine spiritual rest?
- Pastor Mark described 7 different types of rest from Dr. Sandra Dalton-Smith: Physical, Mental, Emotional, Social, Sensory, Creative, and Spiritual. Which type of rest do you naturally gravitate towards? Which one(s) do you feel like you need the most in this season of life?
- What helps you slow down and notice God’s presence?
