The Locker Room

Leadership

What a first half it was! So far, the script had gone according to plan, spectators were blown away by what they witnessed, and the opponent fired up to put an end to the attack. Some of the plays, quite frankly, were so unbelievable that it was hard to imagine what was coming next. Remarkably, some fans actually started rooting for the other team because they just couldn't wrap their heads around the plays that were being called.

The halftime show revealed a few highlights: water was turned into wine, the temple was cleared of thieves, and none of them laid a hand on Jesus, a town converted through a promiscuous woman considered an outcast, a lame man could walk, a blind man could see, 20,000 people fed with few fish and a little bread, He walked on water, confronted everybody, raised a dead man to life, and claimed to be the Son of God. Quite a first half, I would say. Now it was time to hit the locker room to prep for the rest of the game.

"So from that time on, the Jewish leaders began to plot Jesus' death. As a result, Jesus stopped his public ministry among the people and left Jerusalem. He went to a place near the wilderness, to the village of Ephraim, and stayed there with his disciples." (John 11:53-54)

After a heart pounding, get dirty, leave it all on the field first half, Jesus pulled away with his teammates to rest, teach, and prepare for what was to come.

When I read this passage, I am reminded how important it is to step back for a minute. Time to rest. Rest from work, but also in preparation FOR work. That is what we call the Sabbath- a day of rest, reflection, and getting right with God. On the seventh day, God rested. If it was important for the creator of you and the work itself, it's important for all of us. Sabbath is for rest, reflection, and reset.

Rest. Physical, mental, and emotional rest are critical elements of growth and success. Especially in your family. You are going to need some fuel for the ride that is in front of you. The Lord is waiting to fill your tank.

Reflection. How have things gone so far? What can we learn? What mistakes were made? What plays should we run again? What injuries do we have to address? Who is hurting, confused, or just needs a little coaching or encouragement?

Reset. What's the gameplan from here? What adjustments are needed? Who is in the starting lineup? What do we expect from the competition? Is everybody clear on their role and what to do if things go sideways? Are we together?

Think about this in the context of your family and your business.

A Sabbath leader is a far more productive leader than someone who just wants to run 24/7.

They not only take time to fuel up, but also make sure they are on the right road, the engine is functioning properly, and all passengers are safe.

In the chapters that follow this verse, Jesus runs out of the tunnel, straight into the center of the enemy's defenses, and attacks them right where they think they are the strongest. His game plan is to take their greatest advantage and presumed power, and turn it against them as he scores one final victorious touchdown. Then hand the trophy to His team and all the fans that choose to accept it. He took the time to tell them what was going to happen, prepared them for it, took a deep breath, and executed perfectly.

Take time to Sabbath. Your family depends on it, your health depends on it, and so does your business. Rest, Reflect, Reset. It's hard to finish strong without a little time in the locker room.