Prayer for July 23, 2021

O Lord our God, we thank you for the many gifts you have given us.  You remind us to take care of ourselves and take sabbaths.  We are not very disciplined at taking that time to which you invite us.  Getting away from the stresses of the world and expectations of others is hard for us. Help us to find that escape so that we can be fully rested and ready for the ministries that you have put before us.  May we be strong enough to speak up when we need that rest that only a sabbath can provide.  Help us to discern the calls that we need to answer from those that take us away from the time we need to be truly ready to do what you prepare for us.  May we take the time that we have for rest and use it for just that purpose.  All this we ask in your name.  Amen