November 8, 2021

You have your own set of pleasures and satisfactions in life. One of mine is splitting wood. The heft and explosive force of the axe with its clean sweep through the center of the log, the nose of the blade nestled snugly into the chopping block, the oak or ash or walnut or poplar bifurcated and sent airborne, the heartening ascent of the carefully stacked woodpile, the promise of a cheering fire, with novel and a dram of whisky perhaps, and the pleasant muscular ache of a job completed.

You know what this is like in your own avocational life. Here’s what the bible says. 

“So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 8:15)

“O God, in the course of this busy life, give us times of refreshment and peace; and grant that we may so use our leisure to rebuild our bodies and our minds, that our spirits may be opened to the goodness of your creation; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.” (For the Good Use of Leisure – BCP p. 825)