polar bears, gorillas and elijah

Three zoos in three days. Exhausting, but a lot of fun. My wife and I had a great time.

So why do I feel so guilty?

In seven years of full-time ministry I’ve never, ever, taken three days off in a row. Now I know why: There’s a steep price to pay. 

I’m hopelessly behind in everything and catching up will require longer hours than usual, a penalty I’m not looking forward to paying.

Yet I know I need time off, especially since I experienced serious burnout about three years ago and barely survived.

I’m also painfully aware that I’m a Type A Personality and fit the classic definition of a workaholic. Multi-tasking is my middle name and down time, well, I’m not too familiar with that phrase.

As I think back on the last three days, I can’t help but smile at the animals we saw, especially the polar bears who wrestled in the water like Labrador puppies.

And who can forget the gorilla who hammed it up by pressing his face against the glass, no doubt enjoying the reactions of those who were watching. Then, like dessert after a good meal, he made his many observers laugh out loud by plopping butt-first into a giant bowl and munching nonchalantly on broccoli.

The polar bears and the gorilla know how to relax. They even know how to play. I’m not sure I know how to do either.

Biblically, the story of the prophet Elijah always comes to mind whenever I start feeling burned out. After a dramatic encounter with the country’s many false prophets, Elijah runs for his life. Even though he’s experienced incredible success the intensity and stress of the situation apparently takes a toll on him. As we read 1 Kings 19 we find someone who’s depressed, burned out and spinning out of control.

And what is the Lord’s prescription for him (via an angel)? Rest, some food, a little more rest, and some more food. Then, and only then, is Elijah able to continue serving the Lord.

So there it is. I have no excuse. I know I need rest, and on a regular basis (see Exodus 20:8-11).

As for the play thing, well, I can’t find any direct biblical support for it. And yet, it’s my conviction that playing can be considered, in some ways, rest. As in rest from the routine, a diversion from the burdens and responsibilities of everyday life.

For me I guess this means my visiting some more zoos. It also means taking a day off now and then to just relax.

What about you? Do you need to rest? Have you had any playtime recently?

Consider it a mandate from God: Take a page from the polar bears and gorillas and have a little fun. And don’t forget to grab a few zzzzs.

You need it, and it’s biblical. So what are you waiting for?