A great pitcher is something to behold. Whether in softball or baseball, a great pitcher can control a game. Speed and precision are the weapons of a pitcher who can hurl the ball past the waiting batter into the waiting glove of the catcher. A great pitching performance, like a no-hitter, captures the attention of any fan.
As great as pitching is to watch, it is difficult on the pitcher’s arm. This is why baseball pitchers take time off between games. This is why the OSSAA (Oklahoma’s governing body of high school athletics and activities) recently established a rule limiting the amount of pitches a student can throw in a given week. In an effort to keep students from injury, officials have required rest for the pitchers who work so hard for a win.
When I heard about this rule it reminded me of the 2nd verse from the 23rd psalm that reads, “He makes me lie down in green pastures.” One of the great first stated jobs of the shepherd is that he requires and provides rest for his sheep.
Like a great pitcher who works hard to win the game, we all work hard, often to the point of exhaustion. God knew, long in advance, that this was part of our nature and he required us to rest. This is why the Lord established the day of rest in the 10 Commandments. That commandment reads, “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor, and do all your work; 10 but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God…” (Exodus 20:8-10)
Like a good shepherd who cares for his flock, the Lord requires us to rest. He has provided a pattern, an example for rest. He gives us that time to recover and restore our bodies and souls. I hope you will remember this great command and the gift of God’s grace that offers us rest from our labors. Rest is important, and the Lord, our Shepherd, gives us rest in a world that demands so much from us.
Rev. Keith King, Online Campus Pastor
