Did you ever think that taking time off – that going on vacation – could be an example of and an opportunity for good stewardship? On vacation last month in the Dolomite Mountains in northern Italy, our Pope said this: “Before this scene of meadows, of woods, of peaks ascending toward heaven, the desire to praise God for the marvel of his works spontaneously arises in the soul and easily transforms itself into prayer.” And he added, “Every good Christian knows that vacations are an opportune time to stretch one’s body and to nourish the spirit in more ample spaces of prayer and meditation, to grow in one's personal relationship with Christ, and to conform more and more to his teachings.”
Whether it’s a road trip to an unexplored destination, a weekend camping trip in the wilderness, a long-saved-for journey to a distant land, a couple of days at the beach, or just a few precious days of waking up without the shrill sound of the alarm and the prospect of a grueling freeway commute, a vacation from the routine can be a valuable time of refreshment for body and soul. It can provide a graced time to deepen friendships or family relationships and to rest, recharge, and rejoice in a change of pace or change of scene that can refresh and renew our spirits. So, relax, enjoy, and give thanks for the gift of vacation time – it’s good stewardship!
No vacation time this summer? Or is your vacation already over for the year, with no opportunity for new faces and new places on the calendar anytime soon? On your next day off, take time to breathe deeply and be grateful for the rest and refreshment even this short break allows. Good stewardship of our leisure time begins with being aware of this gift of God and then giving thanks for the rhythm of work and rest that make up our daily lives. That “attitude of gratitude” helps assure that even these few hours of “vacation time” will be a source of grace and blessing!
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