Reclaiming Rest: The Promise of Sabbath, Solitude, and Stillness in a Restless World

Memoirist Rademacher (Following the Red Bird) reflects on the meaning and necessity of rest in this elegant work. Embracing the spiritually grounded practice of rest, she writes, “has slowly transformed my life.” What began for her as a struggle to avoid professional burnout (which she calls “anorexia of the soul”) evolved into an exploration and practice of the Judeo-Christian tradition of Sabbath rest, as taught by ancient rabbis and practiced by Jesus, by “reclaiming a 24/6 schedule” which incorporates a Sunday sabbath, and “cultivating moments of rest” in one’s daily life. Rademacher also addresses those who feel the work of social justice or combating inequality requires constant energy and attention. Arguing that only when one feels “relief from having to save the world” can the personal and emotional space for real connection occur, Rademacher explains how “godly grace beyond... control” allowed her to move tentatively toward becoming “bilingual”—speaking both the language of faith and the language of rational effort for social justice and progress. This theologically provocative work will speak to Christians looking for ways to slow down in a hectic world. (July)