August 6, 2025 Midweek News
Happy Wednesday friends!
Does summer leisure help us shape “the good life?” I stumbled on this question in an article from The Conversation (https://theconversation.com/why-leisure-matters-for-a-good-life-according-to-aristotle-260392) and it made me recognize the dangers we see in “achievement society.” The author of this article invites ancient Philosopher Aristotle into the conversation.
Aristotle argues that leisure isn’t merely rest from work but a crucial space for shaping character. Quality leisure allows us to cultivate habits, virtues, and reflective self-awareness—free from the pressure of achievement culture—and thereby becomes the arena in which we decide what kind of person we will become
Just as Aristotle saw leisure as time for inner formation, Jesus often invited people into restful, contemplative spaces—on hillsides, by lakes, in homes—where they could listen, reflect, and encounter deep transformation. In moments like his invitation, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest awhile” (Mark 6:31), Jesus offers a sacred form of leisure: an opportunity for disciples to step back from daily demands and renew their heart connection to themselves and God.
Both Aristotle and Jesus affirm that flourishing—the Christian pursuit of holiness and service—grows not only through external activity but through interior formation. Time spent in prayer, Word, fellowship, and Sabbath rest isn’t wasted: it’s exactly where character is formed, habits of compassion are developed, and the soul is aligned with God’s purposes. May you remember that on the trail, in the water, or on the porch this month.
Several folks mentioned interest in the books I read during my renewal leave. Here are the titles and links if helpful:
Your Perfect Right: Assertiveness and Equality in Your Life and Relationships by Alberti and Emmons https://a.co/d/f5XG7m2
Ordinary Mysticism: Your Life as Sacred Ground by Mirabai Starr https://a.co/d/2Lnj65r
Practice the Pause: Jesus’ Contemplative Practice, New Brain Science, and What it Means to Be Fully Human by Caroline Oakes https://a.co/d/9FSMNZ3
Blessings,
Pastor Jared